4 


FOR  THE 


CHIIiDREJT  OF  GOD, 

TVHOSE  TREASURE  IS  IN  HEAVEN. 

CONSISTING    OF 

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BY    C.    H.   V.    BOGATZKY, 

TOGETHER   WITH   A    FEW 

FORMS  OF  PRAYER, 

FOR  PRIVATE  USE. 


"  Where  your  treasure  is,  there  will  your  heart  be  also." 

Matt.  vi.  21. 


NEW-YORK : 

PRINTED   BV   JOHN   H.    TURXEY,    NO.    133    EAST    BROADWAY. 

1831. 


««««ift  •\^  ^^^ 


AS  s. 


TO  THE  READER. 


The  translation  of  this  little  book  having  been 
undertaken  by  a  particular  hint  of  Providence,  I 
am  not  without  hopes,  that  it  will  meet  with  a  fa- 
vourable reception  from  serious  readers. 

It  is  not  to  be  expected,  that  a  performance  of 
this  nature  will  suit  the  taste  of  those,  who  unhap- 
pily mistake  mere  outward  morality,  for  true  Chris- 
tianity, and  go  on  no  farther  than  natural  reason 
and  strength  will  carry  them.  But  such  as  have, 
or  desire  to  have  a  real  experience  of  the  kingdom 
of  God  in  their  souls,  will  find  much  in  it  to  the 
awakening,  comforting,  and  encouraging  their 
hearts  in  the  right  way. 

The  author  very  properly  calls  it  a  Golden 
Treasury  for  the  children  of  God,  who  esteem 
the  word  of  God,  more  than  gold  and  much  fine 
gold,  from  which  they  may  be  daily  supplied  with 
proper  advice  and  relief,  in  all  manner  of  spiritual 
necessities,  as  thousands  have  happily  experienced 
already. 

The  frequent  use  of  this  book  among  the  chil- 
dren of  God  abroad,  manifestly  appears,  from  the 
many  impressions  it  has  undergone  :  it  being  twen- 
ty times  reprinted  since  the  first  publication. 


IV  TO  THE  HEADER. 

In  translating  it,  great  care  was  taken  never  to 
deviate  from  the  true  and  genuine  sense  of  the  au- 
thor, though  it  was  not  possible  always  to  keep  his 
expressions  :  the  different  idioms  of  the  languages 
sometimes,  requiring  a  short  paraphrase,  to  make 
the  sense  plain  and  easy  in  the  English. 

And  to  bring  it  also  in  the  poetic  part,  to  as  near 
a  resemblance  to  the  original  as  possible,  the  best 
expedient  seemed,  to  have  recourse  to  the  excellent 
hymns  and  psalms  of  the  late  reverend  and  worthy 
Dr.  Watts,  which  furnish  me  with  a  variety  of 
elegant  and  edifying  verses  on  most  of  the  subjects. 
These  being  properly  chosen,  are,  in  my  humble 
opinion,  no  disgrace  to  the  author's  performance, 
and  make  the  fullest  compensation  for  his  thoughts 
I  could  think  of. 

May  the  Lord,  in  his  infinite  goodness,  be  pleas- 
ed to  bless  these  endeavours  to  the  glory  of  his 
name  and  the  good  of  many  souls,  is  the  earnest 
desire,  and  prayer  of  the 

TRANSLATOR. 


PREFACE, 


CONCERNING  THE  BIGHT  USE  OF  THIS 


DIVINE  TREASURIT. 


As  the  Lord  has  been  pleased  signally  to  bless 
this  little  book  to  many  souls,  it  has  been  a  decisive 
encouragement  to  this  further  edition  of  it.  But 
as  this,  like  other  extracts  from  Scripture,  is  liable 
to  abuses,  it  has  been  conceived  proper  to  take  all 
possible  measures  against  such  evils,  and  direct  the 
inexperienced  reader4o  a  right  use  of  it.  First  it 
is  to  be  noticed,  of  which,  indeed,  every  intelligent 
person  will  be  aware,  that  this  piece  is  not  a  mat- 
ter of  light  amusement,  or  calculated  for  the  grati- 
fication of  mere  curiosity  :  no,  the  scope  of  it  is,  in 
a  regular  and  perspicuous  manner,  to  lead  the  su- 
pine world  into  spirituality,  to  enlarge  their  views  of 
many  edifying  truths,  and  especially,  as  far  as  can 
be,  to  detach  them  from  their  low,  puerile,  and  un- 
worthy usages.  The  inculcating  such  admonitions 
has  been  thought  peculiarly  necessary  to  the  too  nu- 
1* 


VI  PREFACE. 

merous  tribes  of  sensual,  trifling  Christians  ;  there- 
fore, some  reflections  to  this  purpose  have  been 
added.  Should  any  vi^ho  are  still  in  love  with  the 
world,  vouchsafe  to  cast  an  eye  on  this  work,  I 
assure  them  it  will  turn  to  quite  another  advantage 
than  wasting  their  time  in  gaming  and  dancing,  in 
futile  jests,  or  ill-natured  censures  on  others,  or  the 
like  amusements ;  this  short  and  precious  time  not 
being  bestowed  on  them  for  such  levities,  but  for 
a  steady  preparation  for  eternity,  and  of  which  they 
are  to  give  a  most  strict  account.  They  are  at  the 
same  time  candidly  warned,  not  to  make  a  play- 
thibg  of  this  work,  but  that  they  labour  to  improve 
it  to  their  effectual  conversion  and  amendment.  If 
any  expressions  touch  them  to  the  quick,  if  they 
see  themselves  any  where  drawn  in  their  proper 
colours,  let  them  not  slight  these  as  chance  and 
accident,  but  be  firmly  persuaded,  that  in  these  the 
Lord  knocks  at  their  hearts,  and  calls  them  to  re- 
pentance. To  this  blessed  call,  let  them  immedi- 
ately attend,  and  yield  themselves  to  be  drawn 
from  the  world  to  God,  by  this  gentle  cord  of  love, 
as  more  eligible,  than  to  be  compelled  by  bit  and 
scourge-  But  if  they  meet  with  nothing  here  but 
words  of  comfort  and  confidence,  let  them  beware 
of  fostering  a  false  consolation,  by  precipitately  era- 
bracing  them  ;  the  safe  way  is  to  be  moved  by  them 
to  repentance,  imploring  God  that  he  would  give 
them  an  humiliating  insight  into  all  their  sins,  and 
especially  their  grievous  depravation  by  original 
sin,  and  a  broken,  contrite,  and  penitent  heart,  and 
implant  in  them  that  lively  faith,  by  which  love 
works,  and  which  overcomes  the  world.  As  they 
grow  in  faith  and  repentance,  they  become  sensible 


PREFACE.  VU 

of  the  power  and  sweetness  of  the  gospel,  and  may 
solace  and  strengthen  themselves  in  the  glorious 
comforts  thereof,  all  the  evangelical  promises  of 
grace,  being  the  portion  only  of  the  penitent  and 
mortified ;  the  obdurate,  the  proud,  the  sensual,  have 
not  the  least  share  in  them.  As  to  the  children  of 
God,  to  them  this  book  is  peculiarly  adapted,  they, 
remaining  in  meekness  and  simplicity,  know  by  their 
own,  and  the  experiences  of  others,  that  their  in- 
dulgent Father,  according  to  his  tender  mercies, 
suits  himself  to  our  imbecility,  and  thus,  not  unfre- 
quently,  applies  to  our  hearts,  words  of  strength 
and  exhortation,  exactly  corresponding  with  our 
circumstances,  and  thus  makes  our  darkness  to  be 
light,  and  our  weakness  strength  ;  these,  therefore 
are  secure  from  perverting  the  texts  to  any  perni- 
cious abuse,  being  divinely  taught  to  improve  all 
to  their  real  edification  ;  these,  in  all  circumstances 
and  accidents,  in  their  going  out  and  coming  in, 
their  rising  up  and  lying  down ;  and  still  more  re- 
markably when  they  are  at  a  stand  how  or  for  what 
they  shall  pray,  find  matter  to  enliven  them,  and 
form  a  prayer  of  the  contents  of  these  discourses, 
also  from  hence  have  subjects  always  ready  for 
godly  conference  with  others,  thus  excluding  all 
frothy  words  or  idle  deportment.  Do  they  light  up- 
on any  sharp  sayings  of  the  law,  these  serve  for 
their  examination  and  trial,  they  particularly  turn 
them  to  this  inestimable  benefit,  that  seeing  in  them 
as  in  a  looking  glass,  their  defects  and  guiltiness, 
they  are  the  more  convinced  of  their  need  of  the  gos- 
pel promises,  and  run  with  more  eager  pantings  and 
love  to  the  precious  blood  of  the  dear  Lamb  of  God, 
which  was  shed  on  the  cross,  the  only  fountain 


Vll  1»REFACE. 

against  sin  and  uncleanness,  to  wash  their  robes 
white  in  all  that  inestimable  propitiation.  This  is 
the  most  happy  employment,  and  herein  should  we 
be  daily  and  hourly  employed,  as  still  the  motions 
of  sin  are  felt  in  us,  hereby  the  peace  of  God  which 
dwells  only  with  a  child-like,  flexible  temper,  and 
that  true  godliness  which  irsues.from  faith,  are  best 
promoted.  In  order  to  their  further  edification, 
they  will  do  well,  in  turning  to  their  bible  for  the 
texts,  comparing  their  harmony,  and  weighing,  and 
digesting  the  parallel  places,  which  are  here  and 
there  added- 

May  the  Lord,  our  God,  who  at  the  building  of  the 
material  temple  of  Jerusalem,  did  not  despise  the 
least  service  or  contribution-,  graciously  accept  in 
Christ-,  of  this  feeble  labour  of  love,  towards  build- 
ing  up  his  spiritual  temple-,  and  continue  still  to  bless 
it  richly  in  the  further  edification  of  more  souls  to 
the  glory  of  his  name,  and  for  the  sake  of  his  eternal 
love.     Amen. 

Halle,  July  4,  1746. 


JANUARY  1.  9 

Aaron  shall  hear  the  names  of  the  children  of  Israel 
in  his  breast-plate  of  judgment,  upon  his  heart, 
when  hegoeth  into  the  holy  place,  for  a  memorial 
before  the  Lord  continually ;  and  thou  shaltput  in- 
to the  breast-plate  of  judgment  the  urim  and  thum- 
mim,  namely,  light  and  integrity.  Exod.  xxviii.  29. 

Now  I  am  forever  in  gracious  remembrance  with 
God,  since  my  great  high-priest,  and  advocate, 
Christ  Jesus,  bears  my  name  continually  before  him, 
on  his  heart.  Whenever  I  am  troubled  about  my 
sins,  his  powerful  mediation  will  surely  plead  mercy 
for  all  my  transgressions,  and  supply  my  wants  abun- 
dantly. God  not  denying  him  any  thing,  I  can, 
through  him,  continually  be  heard  and  obtain  grace  ; 
for  he  makes  perpetual  intercessions  for  me  in  hea- 
ven, by  which  all  my  prayers  at  all  times,  and  even 
now,  are  sanctified  and  presented  to  the  Father, 
who  heareth  him  always.  O  !  who  would  not  often 
send  up  his  petitions  to  heaven  in  faith  ! 

Now  may  our  joyful  tongues, 

Our  Maker's  honour  sing : 
Jesus  the  Priest  receives  our  songs, 

And  bears  them  to  the  King. 

Before  his  Father's  eye, 

Our  humble  suit  he  moves : 
The  Father  lays  his  thunder  by. 

And  looks,  and  smiles,  and  loves. 

No  fiery  vengeance  now, 

No  burning  wrath  comes  down. 

If  justice  calls  for  sinner's  blood, 
The  Saviour  shows  his  own. 


10  JANUARY  2.  ♦ 

/  will  ransom  them  from  the  power  of  the  grave.  1 
will  redeem  them  from  death :  O  Death,  I  will  he 
thy  plague;  O  grave,  I  will  he  thy  destruction. 
Hos.  xiii.  14.  Christ  having  spoiled  principali- 
ties and  powers,  he  made  a  show  of  them  openly, 
triumphing  over  them  in  it.     Col.  ii.   16. 

The  world  is  afraid  of  a  hidden  poison  where 
there  is  none.  The  real  hidden  poison  is  sin,  which 
the  Lord  grant  me  to  fear  every  where  ;  for  it  has 
infected  all  things  and  all  places.  But,  O  rny  dear 
Saviour,  thou  being  my  all-sufficient  preservative 
and  antidote  in  all  places,  O  !  dwell  in  mc  continu- 
ally, and  increase  thou  my  faith,  that  I  may  know 
thee  and  enjoy  thee  more  and  more.  Take  away 
all  fear  of  death,  since  thou  the  Prince  of  life  livest 
in  me,  and  hast  totally  destroyed  both  death  and 
hell. 

Hosanna  to  the  Prince  of  light 
That  clothed  himself  in  clay, 

Enter'd  the  iron  gates  of  death, 
And  tore  the  bars  away. 

Death  is  no  more  the  king  of  dread; 

Since  our  Emmanuel  rose, 
He  took  the  tyrant's  sting  away. 

And  spoil'd  our  hellish  foes. 

Now  holy  triumphs  of  the  soul 
Shall  death  itself  oiit-brave  ; 

Leave  dull  mortality  behind, 
And  fly  beyond  the  grave. 


JANUARY  3.  11 

But  now,  O  Lord,  thou  art  our  father :  We  are  the 
clay,  and  thou  our  potter,  and  we  all  are  the  work 
of  thy  hand.     Isaiah  Ixi v.  8. 

Being  only  thy  clay,  O  Almighty  Potter,  as  I 
must  not,  and  will  not  resist  thy  workings  by  any 
means,  I  assuredly  believe  that  thou  wilt  prepare 
and  perfect  me  for  a  meet  vessel  of  grace,  in  spite 
of  a  thousand  hindrances.  No  work  of  thine 
comes  ever  short  of  its  intended  perfection  :  for 
ivho  can  stay  thy  hand  ?  It  is  thy  own  saying ;  I 
will  work,  and  who  shall  let  it?     Isaiah,  xHii.  13. 

An  artist  delights  in  his  own  workmanship,  and 
would  not  leave  one  single  flaw  or  defect  in  it  de- 
signedly. Phil.  i.  6.  Oh!  then  look  upon  me 
too,  thou  wise  Creator ;  see  how  flesh  and  blood 
disorder  my  poor  soul  1  and  deliver  me  from  all 
that  may  endanger  my  spiritual  hfe.  Knowing 
thou  canst  do  no  less  than  an  human  artist,  who  is 
ever  ready  and  exerts  his  skill  to  mend  and  perfect 
his  work  ;  I  trust  that  thou  wilt  not  always  suflfer 
these  impediments  to  hinder  and  disgrace  thy  work. 
Nay,  such  is  thy  wisdom  and  power,  that  out  of 
darkness  thou  canst  bring  light,  out  of  sickness 
health  ;  and  though  I  am  now  desitute  of  strength 
and  hfe ;  yet  I  believe  thy  work  will  be  finished  at 
last,  and  glorify  the  name  of  its  maker.  1  Pet.  v.  10. 


12  JANUARY  4. 

O  that  the  salvation  of  Israel  were  come  out  ofZion! 
When  the  Lord  brings  hack  the  captivity  of  his 
people,  Jacob  shall  rejoice  and  Israel  shall  he 
glad.  Psal.  xiv.  7.  Divine  answer.  If  the  Son 
make  youfrecy  then  you  are  free  indeed.  John  viii. 
37.     See  also  verses  31,  32. 

Not  as  if  sin  should  be  utterly  destroyed,  or  en- 
tirely dead,  and  could  not  stir  any  more  in  the  heart 
of  believers.  For  the  scripture  speaks  of  them  as 
having  still  the  lusts  and  motions  of  sin.  Gal.  v.  1 3. 
But  it  imports  only,  that  it  has  no  power  either  to 
condemn,  or  reign  over  us,  nay  it  shall  be  weakened 
more  and  more.  Rom.  vi.  12,  14.  So  that  Christ 
reigns  in  the  heart  even  where  sin  dwells,  in  the 
midst  of  his  enemies  ;  and  it  is  a  dangerous  error 
indeed,  to  believe  that  sin  is  destroyed  to  the  root. 
If  it  were  so,  whence  these  frequent  expressions 
and  exhortations,  to  crucify,  withstand,  and  rule 
over  it?  Gal.y.  24. 

Now  sits  our  Saviour  on  his  throne, 

With  pity  in  his  eyes  : 
He  hears  the  dying  pris'ners'  groan, 

And  sees  their  sighs  arise. 

He  frees  the  soul  condemn'd  to  death. 
And  when  his  saints  complain, 

It  shan't  be  said,  that  praying  breath 
Was  ever  spent  in  vain. 

This  shall  be  known  when  we  are  dead, 

And  left  on  long  record, 
That  ages  yet  unborn  may 'read, 

And  trust  and  praise  the  Lord. 


JANUARY  5.  13 

All  that  mil  live  godly,  Note,  in  Christ  Jesus^ 
(for  bare  morality  the  world  likes  well  enough,) 
shall  suffer  persecution.  2  Tim.  iii.  12.  The 
world  hates  them,  because  they  are  not  of  the 
world.     John,  xvii.  14. 

The  children  of  God  do  not  love  and  please  the 
world,  and  are  oftentimes  greatly  afflicted  on  ac- 
count of  the  abounding  wickedness,  and  particu- 
larly the  profanation  of  the  Lord's  name.  Now 
when  you  can  like  the  world,  and  the  world  can 
like  you,  there  must  be  much  worldliness  in  you : 
for  the  world  loves  its  own. 

Many  pretend  to  be  Christians,  but  they  will  not 
endure  persecution.  Instead  of  this,  they  blame 
others  for  too  much  rashness,  and  not  acting  pru- 
dently enough  to  avoid  the  mockings  and  hatred  of 
the  world.  Therefore  they  propose  to  take  wiser 
measures,»and  to  do  more  good,  take  great  care  not 
to  be  despised  and  rejected.  But  under  this  pre- 
tence of  wisdom  and  prudence,  very  often  lies  con- 
cealed a  most  abominable  love  and  fear  of  men. 
Be  thou  nobler  minded,  live  as  a  Christian  indeed, 
and  be  not  ashamed  to  bear  the  cross  of  Christ. 
The  disciple  is  not  above  his  master.  Has  eternal 
love,  wisdom  and  power,  endured  the  contradiction 
and  reproach  of  sinners  ?  Thou  shouldst  be  wiser 
than  him  indeed,  if  thou  couldst  escape  the  re- 
proach and  hatred  of  the  world. 

May  but  his  grace  my  soul  renew  ; 

Let  sinners  gaze  and  hate  me  too ! 
The  Word  that  saves  me,  does  engage 

A  sure  defence  from  all  their  rage. 


U  JANUARY  6. 

All  things  are  possible  to  him  that  believeth.    Mark 
ix.  23. 

Faith  is  the  most  essential  part,  the  eye  and  the 
very  light  of  the  eye  in  the  Christian  religion ;  the 
whole  turns  upon  that.  As  our  faith  is,  so  is  our 
strength  and  faithfulness  in  good  works.  But  at  the 
same  time  there  is  nothing  more  out  of  our  power 
than  to  believe,  even  after  the  work  of  grace  has 
been  actually  wrought  in  our  hearts.  Therefore 
nothing  more  needful  than  to  pray  for  faith  as  long 
as  we  live.  May  the  Lord  give  and  increase  it 
continually! 

Nothing  can  be  stronger  in  the  universe  than  the 
hand  of  faith.  By  this  we  lay  sure  hold  on  our 
most  glorious  and  almighty  Lord  in  heaven,  and 
such  an  inviolable  union  is  established  between 
Christ  and  a  believing  soul,  that  none  cap  separate 
the  one  from  the  other,  all  the  powers  of  hell  and 
sin  avail  nothing. against  it.  Faith  breaks  through 
the  greatest  obstacles,  removes  mountains  of  diffi- 
culties, and  has,  as  it  were  a  kind  of  omnipotence 
in  it.  For  this  is  the  victory  that  overcomes  the 
world,  even  our  faith.  1  Johriy  v.  4.  Nay,  it  even 
wrestles  with  God  and  prevails.  Gen.  xxxii.  28.  A 
straw  cannot  withstand  the  force  of  fire,  so  God 
being  a  wall  of  fire  around  his  people,  the  greatest 
power  of  our  mighty  enemies  shall  be  consumed, 
like  the  stubble.  O  !  then  look  upon  him  stead- 
fastly, my  soul,  and  believe  in  him  with  a  simple 
heart.  Wondrous  are  his  ways  with  his  people, 
and  past  finding  out ;  but  at  last  all  their  sorrows 
and  strife,  by  the  management  of  his  infinite  wis- 
dom, must  come  to  a  glorious  and  triumphant  end. 


JANUARY?.  J  5 

Christ  is  all  in  all.  Col.  iii.  2. 
For  a  believer  to  receive  and  know  Christ  as  his 
all,  is  the  only  means  to  live  truly  a  life  of  faith  ; 
and  when  he  has  done  this,  it  will  not  be  hard  to 
resign  all  other  things.  To  talk  much  of  Christ, 
and  make  frequent  use  of  his  name  one  to  another, 
is  commendable,  if  the  heart  goes  along  with  the 
words  :  but  to  call  upon  God  the  Father  with  a  fil- 
ial confidence,  is  also  our  duty,  and  does  not  con- 
tradict the  apostle's  meaning  at  all,  for  it  is  only 
through  Christ  we  can  do  it ;  and  as  he  says  him- 
self, the  Father  and  he  are  one.  Thou  art  my  all, 
O  gracious  Lord  !  what  then  can  I  want  ?  I  desire 
no  more  than  to  be  put  always  in  mind  of  this,  by 
the  animating  voice  of  thy  Spirit. 

My  Lord,  my  life,  my  love, 
To  thee,  to  thee  I  call : 
I  cannot  live,  if  thou  remove, 

For  thou  art  all  in  all. 
Thy  shining  grace  shall  cheer 

This  dungeon  where  I  dwell : 
'Tis  paradise  when  thou  art  here, 

If  thou  depart,  'tis  hell. 
The  smilings  of  thy  face. 
How  amiable  they  are, 
'Tis  heav'n  to  rest  in  thine  embrace, 

And  no  where  else,  but  there. 
Nor  earth,  nor  all  the  sky, 
Can  one  delight  afford  : 
No,  not  a  drop  of  real  joy. 

Without  thy  presence,  Lord. 
To  thee  my  spirits  fly 

With  infinite  desire ; 
And  yet,  how  far  from  thee  I  he  ! 
Dear  Jesus  raise  me  higher. 


16  JANUARY  8. 

Whatsoever  ye  do  in  word  or  deed,  do  all  in  the  name 
of  the  Lord  Jesus ,  giving  thanks  to  God,  and  the 
Father  by  him.  Col.  iii.  17.  Whether,  therefore, 
ye  eat  or  drink,  or  whatsoever  ye  do,  do  all  to  the 
glory  of  God.     1  Cor.  x.  31. 

Who,  enough,  considers  these  words  in  all  his  ac- 
tions, and  remembers  especially  when  he  sits  down 
at  his  table,  that  it  is  written  for  our  admonition. 
The  idolatrous  Israelites  sat  down  to  eat  and  drink, 
and  immediately  rose  up  to  play.  Is  it  not  matter  of 
lamentation,  that  in  these  our  happy  and  enlight- 
ened times,  even  the  ministers  of  Christ  should  con- 
nive at,  approve  of,  and  indulge  themselves,  or 
their  own  household  in  the  excesses  of  the  age  ? 
Must  not  this  be  a  stumbling-block  both  to  the  chil- 
dren of  God,  and  the  children  of  this  world  ? 

It  highly  concerns  you,  O  ye  vain  and  worldly 
people,  to  try  your  works  by  the  touch-stone  of  these 
words.  Judge  ye  yourselves,  whether  your  dan- 
cings, plays,  sports,  and  other  darling  pleasures, 
can  be  done  in  the  name  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
and  to  the  glory  of  God  ?  Pray  consider  in  time  how 
you  will  answer  for  these  things,  before  the  Judge 
of  heaven  and  earth. 

But  examine  yourselves,  all  ye  that  profess  re- 
ligion, whether  ye  have  truly  acted  up  to  this  rule  ? 
Have  all  your  doings  been,  and  are  they  still  to  the 
glory  of  God  alone?  For  by  this  test,  all  your 
words  and  works  are  to  be  tried,  and  whatsoever 
does  not  tend  to  honour  God,  is  worse  than  vanity. 


JANUARY  9.  17 

All  that  the  Father  giveth  unto  me,  shall  come  to  me; 
and  him  that  comes  to  me-,  I  will  in  no  wise  cast 
outf  and  this  is  the  Father^ s  willf  which  has  sent 
me,  that  of  all  which  he  has  given  me,  I  should 
lose  nothing.  John,  vi.  37,  39. 

O  my  dear  Saviour,  I  am  also  given  unto  thee 
from  thy  Father ;  for  lo  !  I  corae  to  thee.  Conse- 
quently I  cannot  be  lost  nor  cast  out  by  thee,  be- 
cause thou  art  come  to  save,  and  not  to  condemn 
and  reject  even  the  most  wicked  and  hardened  sin- 
ners. For  if  they  are  lost,  it  is  not  for  being  re- 
jected by  thee,  but  for  rejecting  thee  ;  much  less 
wilt  thou  reject  him  that  believes  in  thee,  though 
it  be  but  faintly. 

Not  to  condemn  the  sons  of  men. 
Did  Christ  the  Son  of  God  appear, 

No  weapons  in  his  hands  are  seen, 
No  flaming  sword  nor  thunder  there. 

Such  was  the  pity  of  our  God, 
He  loved  the  race  of  men  so  well, 

He  sent  his  Son  to  bear  our  load 
Of  sins,  and  save  our  souls  from  hell. 

pinners  believe  the  Saviour's  word. 

Trust  in  his  mighty  name,  and  live : 
A   thousand  joys  his  lips  afford, 

1  lis  hands  a  thousand  blessings  give. 

But    vengeance  and  damnation  lies, 
Oi  I  rebels  who  refuse  the  grace  ; 

Who    God's  eternal  Son  despise, 
Th^  e  hottest  hell  shall  be  their  place. 
2* 


18  JANUARY  10. 

Let  every  thing  that  has  breath  praise  the  Lord, 
Psal.  cl.  6. 

Hypocrites  praise  the  Lord  when  all  goes  well 
with  them :  but  true  Christians  do  it  even  in  ad- 
versity ;  nay,  when  they  are  most  humbled  under 
afflictions,  they  most  acknowledge  themselves  un- 
worthy even  of  the  least  of  God's  mercies,  and 
praise  him  the  more  for  every  thing.  Hence  it  is 
that  good  old  Baruch  says,  Chap.  ii.  8.  "  But  the 
soul  that  is  greatly  vexed,  which  goeth  stooping 
and  feeble,  and  the  eyes  that  fail,  and  the  hungry 
soul,  will  give  thee  praise  and  righteousness,  0 
Lord." 

Nature  with  all  her  powers  shall  sing, 
God  the  Creator  and  the  King : 
Nor  air,  nor  earth,  nor  skies,  nor  seas, 
Deny  the  tribute  of  their  praise. 

Begin  to  make  his  glories  known, 
Ye  seraphs  that  sit  near  his  throne  ; 
Tune  your  harps  high,  and  spread  the  sound 
To  the  creation's  utmost  bound. 

All  mortal  things  of  meaner  frame, 
Exert  your  force  and  own  his  name  ; 
Whilst  with  our  souls  and  with  our  voice. 
We  sing  his  honours  and  our  joys. 

To  him  be  sacred  all  we  have, 
From  the  young  cradle  to  the  grave ; 
Our  lips  shall  his  loud  wonders  tell, 
And  ev'ry  word  a  miracle. 


JANUARY  11.  19 

For  God  so  loved  the  world,  that  he  gave  his  only  he- 
gotten  Sonrj  that  ivhosoever  believeth  in  him  should 
not  perish,  hut  have  everlasting  life.  For  God  sent 
not  his  Son  into  the  world  to  condemn  the  world, 
hut  that  the  world  through  him  might  he  saved. 
He  that  helieves  on  him  is  not  condemned.  John, 
iii.  16,  17,  18. 

Oh  that  these  truly  precious  words  were  ever 
warmly  impressed  on  our  hearts,  that  they  were 
our  last  thoughts  at  night,  and  the  first  of  our  wak- 
ing in  the  morning,  and  that  by  this  means  they 
were  improved  in  such  a  manner,  as  to  make  our  dy- 
ing-bed easy  in  the  evening  of  our  life,  and  to  insure 
our  rising  with  gladness  in  the  morning  of  the  re- 
surrection. And  what  more  blessed  and  delightful 
meditations  can  I  daily  dwell  upon,  than  to  think 
thus  :  God  has  loved  me,  even  me,  when  I  was  his 
enemy ;  and  so  loved  me,  that  he  gave  me  his  only 
Son.  Now  he  is  mine  indeed,  and  all  things  are 
mine.  1  Cor.  iii,  2 1 .  For  he  has  not  spared  his  own 
Son,  but  dehvered  him  up  for  us  all,  and  being  thus 
reconciled  to  him,  how  shall  he  not  with  him,  also 
freely  give  us  all  things  ?  Rom.  viii.  32.  He  shall 
never  suffer  me  to  perish.  He  passes  his  word 
for  it.  It  is  he  that  says,  that  "  I  shall  not  perish, 
I  shall  not  be  condemned,"  but  have  everlasting  life, 
if  I  believe.  This  will  I  build  and  depend  upon,  to 
my  last  moments,  as  upon  an  inmoveable  rock. 
Amen  and  Amen. 

O  !  for  this  love  let  earth  and  skies 

With  hallelujahs  ring ; 
And  the  full  choir  of  human  tongues 

All  hallelujah  sing. 


20  JANUARY  12. 

In  Christ  we  have  redemption  through  his  hloodt 
even  the  forgiveness  of  sins.  Col.  i.  14.  Having 
forgiven  you  all  trespasses.  Blotting  out  the 
hand-writing  of  ordinances  that  was  against  us,, 
which  was  contrary  to  us ;  and  took  it  out' of  the 
way,  nailing  it  to  the  cross.  Col.  ii.  13,14.  There- 
fore, said  he,  it  is  finished.  John,  xix.  30. 

Then  all  the  daily  transgressions  aud  infirmities 
of  believers,  says  a  certain  good  writer,  are  alrea- 
dy forgiven  through  Christ ;  the  whole  sum  of 
them  having  been  paid  at  once,  and  a  whole  Christ, 
with  all  his  merits,  having  been  applied  to  us  for 
our  justification ;  his  merits,  not  only  extend  to 
our  past,  but  even  to  our  present  and  future  sins. 
Hence  we  are  daily  justified,  as  long  as  we  believe 
in  Christ;  and  for  this  reason  may  have  great  as- 
surance and  confidence  towards  God  through  him.. 

Not  all  the  blood  of  beasts 

On  Jewish  altar  slain, 
Could  give  the  guilty  conscience  peace, 

Or  wash  away  the  stain. 

But  Christ  the  heavenly  Iamb, 

Takes  all  our  sins  away, 
A  sacrifice  of  nobler  name, 

And  richer  blood  than  they. 

My  faith  would  lay  her  hand 

On  that  dear  head  of  thine, 
While  like  a  penitent  I  stand. 

And  there  confess  my  sin. 

My  soul  looks  back  to  see 
The  burthens  thou  didst  bear. 

When  hanging  on  the  cursed  tree. 
And  hopes  her  guilt  was  there. 


JANUARY  13.  21 

Keep  me  as  the  apple  of  thine  eye,  hide  me  under 
the  shadow  &fthy  wings.  Psal.  xvii.  8.  Divine 
answer.  JUe  shall  cover  thee  with  his  feathers, 
and  under  his  wings  shalt  thou  trust ;  his  truth 
shall  he  thy  shield  and  buckler.  Psal.  xci.  4. 

There  is  none,  O  Lord !  that  has  more  need  con- 
tinually to  keep  close  to  thee  in  prayer  and  faith ! 
and  at  the  same  time,  none  is  more  unable  to  do  it, 
than  I,  the  least  of  all  thy  flo5k.  O !  that  thou 
wouldst  be  graciously  pleased  to  incline  and  ena- 
ble me  to  this  blessed  work  ;  and  grant  that  thy  good 
spirit,  according  to  its  own  pleasure,  may  never 
suffer  me  to  be  faint  and  backward  in  the  same. 
Forasmuch  as  I  truly  rest  by  faith,  under  the  wings 
of  thy  grace,  I  am  sure  of  defence,  power,  and  com- 
fort ;  but  as  soon  as  I  wander  from  thee,  I  am  in 
danger  of  losing  these  privileges  and  falling  away. 

He  that  has  made  his  refuge,  God, 
Shall  find  a  most  secure  abode. 
Shall  walk  all  day  beneath  his  shade, 
And  there  at  night  shall  rest  his  head. 

Just  as  a  hen  protects  her  brood 
From  birds  of  prey,  that  se^  their  blood. 
Under  her  feathers  ;  so  the  Lord, 
Makes  his  own  arm  his  people's  guard. 

Thrice  happy  man  1  thy  maker's  care 
Shall  keep  thee  from  the  fowler's  snare. 
Satan  the  fowler  who  betrays 
Unguarded  souls  a  thousand  ways. 

What  though  a  thousand  at  thy  side, 
At  thy  right  hand  a  thousand  died, 
Thy  God  his  chosen  people  saves 
Amongst  the  dead,  amidst  the  graves. 


tt  JANUARY  14. 

Set  thine  house  in  order ^  for  thou  shalt  die  and  not 
live.  2  Kings,  xx.  1.  So  teach  us,  O  Lord,  to  num- 
ber our  days,  that  we  may  apply  our  hearts  to  wis- 
dom. Psal.  xc.  12. 

Such  as  live  not  outwardly  in  open  sins,  though 
they  do  not  deny  themselves,  and  the  world,  but 
conform  in  many  things  to  the  ungodly  customs  in 
practices  of  this  agj^e,  are  very  often  reckoned  to  be 
good  sober  Christians,  and  perhaps  much  applauded 
for  their  wisdom  and  discretion,  in  steering  a  middle 
course,  and  keeping  clear  of  the  dangerous  extremes 
of  the  loose  or  profane,  and  the  superstitious  or 
hypocritical  enthusiasts,  who  in  their  ignorance  and 
folly  pretend  to  tax  every  innocent  diversion  with 
sin  ;  but  this,  their  wisdom,  will  certainly  prove  fol- 
ly in  the  hour  of  death.  What  profit  can  they  then 
reap  from  the  time  that  has  been  spent  in  dancing, 
gaming,  and  other  worldly  amusements  and  plea- 
sures ! 

My  soul,  come  meditate  the  day, 

And  think  how  near  it  stands, 
When  thou  must  quit  the  house  of  clay, 

And  fly  4o  unknown  lands. 

And  you,  mine  eyes,  look  down  and  view, 

The  hollow  gaping  tomb. 
This  gloomy  prison  waits  for  you, 

Whene'er  the  summons  come. 

0  !  could  we  die  with  those  that  die, 

And  place  us  in  their  stead. 
Then  would  our  spirits  learn  to  fly, 

And  converse  with  the  dead. 


JANUARY  15.  23 

Pray  without  ceasing,   1  Thess  v.  17. 

If  we  have  not  grace  enough,  it  is  because  we  do 
not  pray  enough,  for  most  true  it  is,  we  need  not 
strive  to  move  God  to  compassion,  and  extort,  as  it 
were,  the  blessings  from  him  by  our  prayers.  Very 
far  from  it.  He  is  every  minute  communicating 
himself  to  us  ;  in  every  word  he  holds  forth  Christ 
and  every  good  thing  to  us  ;  but  we  must  always 
have  a  soul  hungering  after  Christ,  and  by  incessant 
prayer  stretch  out  the  hand  of  faith  to  receive  him. 
This  is  chiefly  to  be  understood  of  the  inward  de- 
sires and  groanings  of  our  spirit ;  but  we  must  not 
omit  to  pour  out  our  supplications  daily,  as  oft  as  we 
can  by  words,  else  our  secret  mental  prayers,  at  last, 
may  become  so  secret,  as  to  cease  perhaps  entirely. 

Father,  in  the  mighty  name 

Of  thy  well-beloved  Son, 

One  of  all  thy  gifts  I  claim, 

All  my  wants  I  speak  in  one. 
Let  me  for  thy  promise  stay. 
Only  give  me  power  to  pray. 

Grant  me  the  comfort  or  deny, 

Visit,  or  from  me  depart, 
Only  let  my  spirit  cry, 

Abba  Father  in  my  heart. 
Abba  Father  would  I  say  ; 
Only  give  me  power  to  pray. 


24  JANUARY  16. 

Abide  in  me.  John,  xv.  4.  Lord,  to  whom  shall  we 
go,  thou  hast  the  words  of  eternal  life.  John,  vi. 
68.  For,  it  is  good  for  me  to  draw  near  to  God. 
I  have  put  my  trust  in  the  Lord  God.  Psal.  Ixiii  28. 

To  abide  in  Christ,  who  is  our  righteousness  and 
strength,  and  not  to  be  moved  from  him,  is  the  very 
life  and  power  of  Christianity  ;  for  to  know  him 
to  be  our  righteousness,  brings  peace  and  joy  : 
which  joy  in  the  Lord  is  certainly  followed  with 
strength,  to  overcome  sin  in  the  world,  which  be- 
lievers renounce  the  more  readily,  as  they  have 
found  something  better  in  Christ.  May  the  Lord 
give  me  grace,  likewise,  immoveably  to  abide  in 
him. 

Christ  is  my  light,  my  life,  my  care, 
My  blessed  hope,  my  heav'nly  prize ; 

Dearer  than  all  my  passions  are, 
My  limbs,  my  bowels,  or  my  eyes. 

The  strings  that  twine  about  my  heart, 
Tortures  and  racks  may  tear  them  off, 

But  they  can  never,  never  part. 

With  their  dear  hold  of  Christ  my  love. 

My  God  !  how  can  a  humble  child. 
That  loves  thee  with  a  flame  so  high, 

Be  ever  from  thy  face  exil'd 
Without  the  pity  of  thine  eye  ? 

Impossible  !  for  thine  own  hand« 
Have  tied  my  heart  so  fast  to  thee, 

And  in  thy  book  the  promise  stands, 
That  where  thou  art,  thy  friends  must  be. 


JANUARY  17.  25 

Christ  has  redeemed  us  from  the  curse  of  the  law, 
being  made  a  curse  f&r  us :  for  it  is  written, 
Cursed  is  every  one  that  hangeth  on  a  tree.  That 
the  blessing  of  Abraham  might  come  on  the  Gen- 
tiles through  Jesus  Christ ;  that  we  might  receive 
the  promise  of  the  spirit  through  faith.  Gal.  iii. 
13,  14. 

The  spirit  of  sanctification  is  the  gift  of  Christ. 
Consequently  there  is  a  great  difference  between 
moral  actions  done  by  our  own  strength,  and  true 
sanctification  of  the  spirit.  The  latter  cannot  take 
place  before  the  soul  truly  receives  Christ,  and 
abides  in  him  as  its  only  propitiation,  righteousness, 
and  peace ;  for  he  being  first  made  to  us  of  God  our 
righteousness,  will  then  be  made  our  sanctification 
likewise.  1  Cor.  i.  30.  And  the  kingdom,  work, 
and  image  of  God,  will  go  on  best  when  we  trust 
least  to  our  own  strength  ;  sanctification  is  now  be- 
come a  more  easy  task,  and  we  need  not  be  com- 
pelled to  it  by  the  terrors  of  the  law,  since  Christ 
lives  and  works  in  us,  and  we  in  a  child-like  temper 
live  henceforth  to  him,  who  died  for  us. 

The  law  commands  and  makes  us  know 
What  duties  to  our  God  we  owe, 
But  'tis  the  gospel  must  reveal 
Where  lies  our  strength  to  do  his  will. 

The  law  discovers  guilt  and  sin, 
And  shows  how  vile  our  hearts  have  been  ; 
Only  the  gospel  can  express 
Forgiving  love,  and  cleansing  grace. 


26  JANUARY  18. 

Christ  is  the  end  of  the  law  for  righteousness ^  to 
every  one  that  believes.  Rom.  x.  4. 

When  the  law,  by  its  spirituahty,  has  condemned 
all  our  works  and  doings,  convinced  us  of  our 
weakness,  and  slain  us,  it  has  done  its  work,  and 
has  no  further  business,  but  to  be  our  schoolmas- 
ter to  bring  us  unto  Christ ;  and  being  in  him, 
the  law  has  no  demands  upon  us  any  more,  since 
we  have  an  abundant  righteousness,  beyond  all 
that  can  be  required  by  the  law,  even  in  the  righ- 
teousness of  God  himself. 

Lord,  when  my  thoughts  with  wonder  roll 
O'er  the  sharp  sorrows  of  my  soul, 
And  read  my  Maker's  broken  laws, 
Repair'd  and  honour'd  by  thy  cross  : 

When  I  behold,  death,  hell  and  sin, 
Vanquish'd  by  that  dear  blood  of  thine, 
And  see  the  man  that  groan'd  and  died, 
Sit  glorious  by  his  Father's  side  ; 

My  passions  rise  and  soar  above, 
I'm  wing'd  with  faith,  and  fir'd  with  love, 
Fain  would  I  reach  eternal  things, 
And  learn  the  notes  that  Gabriel  sings. 

But  my  heart  fails,  my  tongue  complains, 
For  want  of  their  immortal  strains  ; 
And  in  such  humble  notes  as  these 
Must  fall  below  thy  victories. 


JANUARY  19.  27 

But  the  dove  found  no  rest  for  the  sole  of  her  foot, 

and  she  returned  unto  Noah  into  the  ark,  when 

he  put  forth  his  hand  and  took  her,  and  pulled 

her  m  unto  him  into  the  ark.    Gen.  viii.  9. 

Many,  on  their  first  awakening  from  sin,  apply 

themselves  to  very  hard  works  and  rigorous  dudes, 

thereby  expecting  to  find  rest  for  their  wounded 

consciences.     But  though  the  right  and  diligent  use 

of  all  the  means  of  grace  is  absolutely  required,  vet 

great  care  must  be  taken  not  to  quiet  ourselves  by 

that  only.     We  should  not  place  any  confidence  at 

all  in  our  do.ngs,  but  only  look  for  rest  through 

«ie  work  of  the  redemption,  and  the  blood  of  Christ. 

lo  know  ourselves  entirely  justified  by  him,  would 

soon  fill  our  hearts  with  peace,  nay,  encourage  and 

enable  us  to  do  good  works.  2  Chron.  xvii.  6, 

In  vain  the  trembling  conscience  seeks 

Some  solid  ground  for  rest, 
With  long  despair  the  spirit  breaks, 

'Till  we  apply  to  Christ.  * 

Just  as  we  see  the  lonesome  dove 

Bemoan  her  widow'd  state, 
Wand'ring  she  flies  through  all  the  grove, 

And  mourns  her  loving  mate. 

Just  so  our  thoughts  from  thing  to  thing, 

In  restless  circles  rove. 
Just  so  we  droop  and  hang  the  wing. 

When  Jesus  hides  his  love. 

While  Jesus  shines  with  quick'ning  grace, 

We  sing  and  mount  on  high, 
But  if  a  frown  becloud  his  face, 

We  faint,  and  tire,  and  die. 


28  JANUARY  20. 

By  this  shall  all  men  know  that  ye  are  my  disciples, 
if  ye  have  love  one  to  another.  John,  xiii.  35.  Foi^- 
bearing  one  another  in  love.  Endeavouring  to 
keep  the  unity  of  the  spirit  in  the  bond  of  peace. 
Let  not  the  sun  go  down  upon  your  wrath ;  but  be 
ye  kind  one  to  another,  tender-hearted,  forgiving 
one  another,  even  as  God  for  Christ's  sake  has 
forgiven  you.  Eph.  iv.  2, 3,  26,  32. 

Humble  Christians  never  affect  singularity,  nor 
pretend  to  have  the  preference  one  of  another ;  they 
rather  study  to  be  of  one  mind.  Strive  not  about 
words,  lest  the  general  harmor.y  subsisting  between 
them,  and  the  edification  of  souls  should  be  hinder- 
ed. Whoever  judges  and  blames  every  thing,  and 
can  never  agree  in  words  and  notions,  or  join  in  de- 
votion with  other  experienced  Christians,  is  puffed 
up  with  self-conceit,  and  will  certainly  make  a  dan- 
gerous ship-wreck  ;  for  pride  comes  before  a  fall. 

•Not  diff 'rent  food,  or  diff 'rent  dress, 
Compose  the  kingdom  of  our  Lord, 
But  peace,  and  joy,  and  righteousness  ; 
Faith,  and  obedience  to  his  word. 

When  weaker  Christians  we  despise, 
We  do  the  gospel  mighty  wrong. 

For  God  the  gracious  and  the  wise. 
Receives  the  feeble  with  the  strong. 

Let  pride  and  wrath  be  banish'd  hence, 
Meekness  and  love  our  souls  pursue  ; 

Nor  shall  our  practice  give  offence 
To  Saints,  the  Gentile,  or  the  Jew. 


JANUARY  21.  -29 

While  the  bridegroom  tairied,  they  all  slumbered 
and  slept.  Matt.  xxv.  5. 

O  that  r  may  be  roused  out  of  my  slumber,  and  be 
watchful,  and  ready  against  the  coming  of  my 
bridegroom. 

How  many  are  there  that  set  out  in  good  earnest 
in  their  way  to  heaven,  and  rnn  well  for  some  time, 
but  at  last  are  lulled  to  rest,  and  entangled  again 
with  a  false  notion  of  liberty  1  even  the  wise  virgins 
fell  asleep.  Let  this  be  a  warning  to  me,  O  Lord! 
set  thou  a  guard  before  my  eyes,  ears,  and  other 
faculties,  lest  the  world  should  enter  again  through 
these  avenues  of  the  heart ;  if  the  spark  be  not 
speedily  extinguished,  it  will  soon  break  out  in  a 
flame  ;  thus  sin  is  of  a  progressive  nature,  and  its 
venom  spreads  quickly,  and  very  wide,  unless  it  be 
stopped  and  opposed  in  time.  Watch,  therefore, 
over  that  unsteady  heart  of  mine,  O  thou  keeper 
of  Israel !  that  as  soon  as  it  begins  to  wander  from 
thee,  I  may  be  alarmed  to  flee  from  sin  as  from  a 
serpent.  Give  me  grace  to  look  upon  every  hour  as 
my  last,  so  that  being  ever  wisely  upon  my  guard, 
I  may  meet  thee  with  joy  when  my  time  is  run 
out,  whenever  it  shall  please  thee  to  call  me  hencCj 

The  fearful  soul  that  tires  and  faint, 
And  walks  the  ways  of  God  no  more, 

Is  but  esteemed  almost  a  saint, 

And  makes  his  own  destruction  sure. 

Lord,  let  not  all  my  hopes  be  vain  : 

Create  my  heart  entirely  new, 
Which  hypocrites  could  ne'er  attain, 

Which  false  apostates  never  knew. 


.'^* 


30  JANUARY  22. 

But  while  men  slept,  his  enemy  came   and  sowed 

tares  among  the  wheat.  Matt.  xiii.  25. 

• 

No  wonder  that  Christians  lose  their  power  and 
strength,  if  the  enemy  of  souls  find  them  asleep. 
How  soon  may  he  gain  an  advantage  from  without, 
if  a  strict  guard  is  not  kept  within !  though  Satan 
seems  to  sleep  sometimes,  and  we  should  in  all  ap- 
pearance be  in  no  danger,  it  is  only  his  stratagem 
to  make  us  careless.  He  never  fails  to  be  vigilant, 
and  watch  his  opportunity  that  he  may  offer  us  bat- 
tle with  advantage  ;  and  who  knows  but  he  may 
gain  the  victory  by  those  very  sins  to  which  per- 
paps  we,  for  many  years,  had  hardly  any  tempta- 
tion. O !  how  cunningly  does  he  work  ?  how  in- 
ticing  is  the  world  ?  even  in  lawful  things,  very  of- 
ten, the  most  dangerous  snares  lay  hidden.  A  sin- 
gle word  that  we  hear  may  be  able  to  disturb  our 
peace.  One  unguarded  look  is  sometimes  enough 
to  infatuate  our  hearts.  There  is  danger  on  all 
sides.  Unless  the  Lord  opens  our  eyes  and  preserves 
us  on  all  occasions,  each  of  us,  even  the  best,  may 
still  be  overcome,  and  deadly  hurt,  by  sin  and  the 
world.  Satan  is  particularly  busy  to  sift  the  godly 
most  of  all,  and  having  catched  them  in  his  net, 
triumphs  exceedingly  over  them. 

O  Lord,  suffer  me  never  to  fall  asleep  again. 


JANUARY  23.  31 

Wherefore  in  all  things  it  behoved  him  to  he  made 
like  unto  his  brethren,  that  he  might  be  a  merciful 
and  faithful  high-priest  in  things  pertaining  to 
God,  to  make  reconciliation  for  the  sins  of  the  peo- 
ple. Heb.  xi.  1 7.  Therefore  because  he  continues 
ever,  he  has  an  unchangeable  priesthood,  where- 
fore he  is  also  able  to  save  them  to  the  uttermost 
that  come  unto  God  by  him,  seeing  he  ever  lives 
to  make  intercession  for  them.  Chap.  vii.  24,  25. 

If  we  have  really  experienced  in  our  hearts  that 
Christ  is  our  brother,  it  will  be  such  an  exceeding 
great  thing  to  us,  that  we  shall  be  constrained  rath- 
er to  be  silent  upon,  than  to  talk  much  of  it.  Such 
as  only  cry  out,  and  make  the  greatest  noise,  have 
very  often  the  least  experience  of  it. 

Luther,  on  these  words,  says,  Christ  is  the  pro- 
pitiation for  the  sins  of  the  whole  world,  and  so  for 
mine  too.  His  continual  intercession  abolishes  all 
charges  against  me,  old  and  new,  he  being  able  to 
save  to  the  uttermost,  and  living  for  ever.  This 
is  by  him  very  emphatically  repeated  again.  As 
long,  therefore,  as  this  lasteth,  his  salvation  lasteth 
also,  and  will  be  ever  ready  and  able  to  take  away 
my  sins,  and  accomplish  my  eternal  happiness,  in 
spite  of  all  obstacles  and  hindrances. 

Jesus,  the  king  of  glory  reigns, 

On  Zion's  heav'nly  hill : 
Looks  like  a  lamb  that^has  been  slain, 

And  wears  his  priesthood  still. 

He  ever  lives  to  intercede, 

Before  his  Father's  face  : 
Give  him,  my  soul,  thy  cause  to  plead. 

Nor  doubt  the  Father's  grace. 


32  JANUARY  24. 

Herein  is  love,  not  that  we  loved  God,  but  that  he  lov- 
ed us,  and  sent  his  Son  to  be  a  propitiation  for 
our  sins.  We  love  him  because  hejirst  loved  us. 
1  John,  iv.  10,  19.  He  that  loves  me  shallbc  luved 
of  my  Fatherland  I  will  love  him,  and  will  mani- 
fest mysefunto  him.  We  will  come  unto  him,  and 
make  our  lohole  abode  with  him.  John  xiv.  21,  23. 

O  what  a  glorious  promise,  what  manner  oflove 
is  this !  Lord,  I  would  not  exchange  my  cross  and 
sufferings,  much  less  thy  love,  for  the  love  and  hon- 
ours of  the  world.  Only  make  it  more  known  to 
me,  how  great  thy  love  is,  and  how  much  thou  hast 
forgiven  me,  that  I  may  love  thee  much  again,  and 
be  thereby  still  better  purged  from  the  inordinate 
lovG  of  temporal  things.  It  is  my  earnest  desire 
that  the  gates  of  my  heart,  should  be  open  to  none 
but  to  thee,  that  thou  alone  may  dwell  in  me.  Shed 
thy  love  abroad  in  my  heart,  quicken  and  renew 
all  the  faculties  of  mind  and  body,  and  work  every 
thing  in  and  for  me. 

O  !  for  this  love,  let  rocks  and  hills, 

Their  lasting  silence  break, 
And  all  harmonious  human  tongues 

The  Saviour's  praises  speak. 

Yes,  we  will  praise  thee,  dearest  Lord, 

Our  souls  are  all  on  flame  ; 
Hosanna  round  the  spacious  earth 

To  thine  adored  name. 

Angels,  assist  our  mighty  joys, 
Strike  all  your  harps  of-gold, 
But  when  you  raise  your  highest  notes, 
His  love  can  ne'er  be  told. 


JANUARY  25.  33 

Wherefore  we  labour-,  that  whether  present  or  ab- 
sent-, we  may  be  accepted  of  him.  2  Cor.  v.  9. 

This  indeed  is  the  true  disposition  of  a  soul  es- 
poused to  Christ.  She  has  but  one  care,  which  is 
to  please  him  in  all  things.  And  this  desire  to  do 
his  will,  is,  as  it  were,  the  ring  and  the  seal  of  her 
bridegroom,  which  she  may  look  upon  even  in  the 
absence  of  all  spiritual  joy,  as  a  token  for  good, 
that  she  is  his  spouse. 

Ought  not  then  this  day,  O  my  soul,  to  be  a  new 
wedding-day  with  Christ  ?  He  is  desirous  that  thou 
shouldst  be  betrothed  unto  him,  even  now,  and  waits 
only  for  thy  consent.  Hearken,  O  daughter,  consi- 
der and  incline  thine  ear,  be  no  longer  married  to 
the  world.  Forget  thy  own  people  and  thy  father's 
house,  and  take  him  alone  for  thy  husband  ;  so  shall 
the  King  greatly  desire  thy  beauty.  Wilt  thou  give 
the  refusal  to  this  glorious  and  loving  Saviour  ?  I 
hope  not.  Give  it  rather  to  the  world,  and  resolute- 
ly say.  It  is  enough,  I  have  done  with  thee,  O  poor 
world  !  I  break  the  bonds  of  my  former  love  ;  my 
eyes  and  my  feet  shall  henceforth  only  be  directed 
to  the  blessed  and  eternal  city  of  the  new  Jerusalem, 
where  my  heavenly  bridegroom  resides.  And  O, 
what  need  have  I  to  be  daily  prepared,  dressed,  and 
beautified,  against  his  coming,  and  the  time  of  his 
taking  me  home  to  himself!  Far  be  it  from  me  to 
please  the  world  any  longer.  No,  no  ;  but  since  I 
am  betrothed,  and  have  given  myself  in  marriage 
to  Christ,  I  will  love  him  alone,  and  be  true  to 
him,  whilst  any  drop  of  blood  flows  in  my  veins. 
Amen. 


34  JANUARY  26. 

Let  us  therefore  come  boldly  unto  the  throne  of 
grace,  that  we  may  ohtain  mercy,  and  find  grace 
to  help  in  time  of  need.  Heb.  iv.  16. 
O  that  we  were  all,  so  wise,  as  to  prepare  and 
provide  ourselves,  in  due  time,  with  the  right  ar- 
mour of  faith,  before  the  time  of  need,  and  hour 
of  death  approach.  Come,  my  reader,  let  us  be- 
gin now,  directly,  to  lay  in  a  good  stock  of  grace  by 
continual  prayer,  lest  we  should  come  too  late  and 
be  undone.  Behold  the  encouragement  of  Christ. 
I  am  the  door,  says  he,  and  the  way.  John,  x.  1. 
Chap.  xiv.  6.  Now  by  this  door  you  may  find  the 
entrance  into  the  heart  and  favour  of  God  ;  Christ 
himself  setting  on  a  mercy  seat,  to  receive  and  vvel- 
come  the  vilest  of  sinners.  And  there  is  no  draw- 
ing near  to  God  but  through  him,  and  clothed  in  the 
robes  of  righteousness  of  our  only  Redeemer, 
Mediator,  and  Advocate.  He  is  Alpha  and  OmO' 
ga,  the  Beginning  and  the  End,  nay,  the  very  All, 
in  all  believers.  With  Christ  they  never  can  part; 
and  he  can  never  part  with  them. 

Now  we  may  bow  before  his  feet 

And  venture  near  the  Lord  : 
No  fiery  cherub  guards  his  seat. 

Nor  double  flaming  sword. 

Once  'twas  a  seat  of  dreadful  wrath, 

And  shot  devouring  flame  : 
Our  God  appear'd  consuming  fire, 

And  vengeance  was  his  name. 

Rich  were  the  drops  of  Jesus'  blood 
That  calm'd  his  frowning  face, 

That  sprinkled  o'er  the  burning  throne, 
And  turn'd  the  wrath  to  grace. 


JANUARY  27.  35 

God  commendeth  his  love  towards  m,  in  that  while 
we  were  yet  sinners  Christ  died  for  us.  Much 
more  than  being  now  justified  by  his  blood,  we 
shall  be  saved  from  wrath  through  him.  For  if 
tohen  we  were  enemies,  we  were  reconciled  to  God 
by  the  death  of  his  Son ;  much  more  being  recoil 
ciled.  we  shall  be  saved  by  his  life.  Rom  v  8   9 


Here  we  have  much  more  reason  to  cry  out  th-a 
Moses.  Deut.  xxxviii.  3.  The  Lord  loved  the  poo- 
pie.     But  here  I  must  beseech  thee,  too,  O  Lord  ' 


that  this  mfinite  gift  of  thy  Son,  may  appear  to  me 
greater  and  greater  every  day,  and  that  thy  love 
shming  out  m  his  redemption,  may  go  on  so  as  to 
increase  in  my  soul  ;  as  to  disperse  all  clouds  of 
darkness,  unbelief,  and  hard  thoughts  of  thy  .rood- 
ness  Whenever  this  slanderous  spirit  tries  to  lift  up 
his  head,  grant  that  my  faith  and  love  may  be  quick- 
ened,  and  strengthened  in  such  a  manner,  as  heart- 
ily to  praise  thy  great  love,  in  spite  of  all  his  sug- 
gestions. This  is  the  chief  desire,  which  I  offer 
unto  thee  in  all  my  prayers,  night  and  day.  The 
want  of  faith  and  love,  I  am  sensible,  is  still  my 
greatest  want.  My  soul  is  like  a  large  empty  ves- 
sel ;  but  I  pray  thee  to  fill  it  speedily,  notwithstan- 
ding any  opposition  that  may  be  made  by  mv  unre- 
newed part.  '  J      J      iic 

So  strange,  so  boundless  was  the  love, 

That  pitied  dying  men, 
The  Father  sent  his  equal  Son, 

To  give  them  hfe  again. 

Thy  hands,  dear  Jesus,  were  not  arm'd 

With  a  revenging  rod, 
No  hard  commission  to  perform 

The  vengeance  of  a  God. 


36  JANUARY  28. 

The  combat  of  the  flesh  and  the  spirit.  Gal.  v.  17. 
The  flesh  lusteth  against  the  spirit,  and  the  spirit 
against  the  flesh  ;  and  these  are  contrary,  the  one 
to  the  other ;  so  that  you  cannot  do  those  things 
that  you  should. 

Faith  only  puts  an  end  to  that  Hfeless,  faint,  and 
unprofitable  conflict  under  the  law ;  not  of  the  com- 
bat between  the  flesh  and  the  spirit.  The  last,  ra- 
ther begins  on  our  believing  in  Christ ;  for  till  then 
we  have  not  the  spirit  of  God,  which  is  only  given 
by  the  gospel. 

What  diflf'rent  powers  of  grace  and  sin 

Attend  our  mortal  state  ? 
I  hate  the  thoughts  that  work  within, 

And  do  the  works  I  hate. 

Now  I  complain,  and  groan,  and  die, 

While  sin  and  satan  reign  : 
Now  raise  my  songs  of  triumph  high, 

For  grace  prevails  again. 

So  darkness  struggles  with  the  light, 

Till  perfect  day  arise : 
Water  and  fire  maintain  the  fight, 

Until  the  weaker  dies. 

Thus  will  the  flesh  and  spirit  strive, 

And  vex  and  break  my  peace  : 
But  I  shall  quit  this  mortal  hfe. 

And  sin  for  ever  cease. 


JANUARY  29.  37 

The  prosperity  of  fools  (the  wicked)  shall  destroy 
them ;  hut  whoso  hearkeneth  unto  me  shall  dwell 
safely,  and  shall  be  quietfromfear  of  evil.  Prov. 
i.  32,  33.  The  young  lions  do  lack  and  suffer 
hunger,  but  they  that  fear  the  Lord  shall  not  want 
any  good  thing.  Psl.  xxxiv.  1 1 .  For  godliness  is 
profitable  unto  all  things,  having  promise  ofthelife 
that  now  is,  and  of  that  which  is  to  come.  1  Tim. 
iv.  8. 

Even  the  rich  ones  suffer  want,  whereas  a  true 
believer  always  has  enough,  and  is  equally  rich 
and  contented  at  all  times.  The  all-sufficient  hand 
of  God,  who  supplies  all  creatures,  and  is  never 
shortened,  is  his  never  faihng  treasure.  And  be- 
sides, having  Christ,  who  is  his  All,  what  can  he 
want  ?  In  darkness  and  ignorance  he  is  his  coun- 
sellor; in  weakness,  his  strength.  Whatever  he 
denies  him,  either  is  not  good  for  him,  ®r  at  least 
not  at  that  time.  And  thus  all  things,  even  wants, 
are  a  real  gain  and  blessing  to  him,  for  they  serve 
and  are  intended  to  keep  him  humble,  to  make  him 
better  acquainted  with  the  word  of  God,  and  ex- 
cite him  to  be  more  zealous  in  prayer. 
Now  I  shall  envy  them  no  more 

Who  grow  profanely  great, 
Though  they  increase  their  golden  store, 

And  rise  to  wondrous  height. 
They  taste  of  all  the  joys  that  grow 

Upon  this  earthly  clod  ! 
Well,  they  may  search  the  creatures  through, 

For  they  have  ne'er  a  God. 
Shake  off  the  thoughts  of  dying  too, 

And  think  your  life  your  own  : 
But  death  comes  hast'ning  on  to  you. 
To  mow  your  glory  down. 
4 


38  JANUARY  3:0. 

All  these  things  have  I  kept  from  my  youth  up. 
Matt.  xix.  20.  They  return,  but  not  to  the  most 
High,  they  are  like  a  deceitful  bow.  Hos.  vii.  16. 

To  part  with  one's  most  secret  bosom  sin  and 
darling  lust,  is  true  and  unfeigned  conversion,  that 
is  the  right  turning  to  Christ,  for  whose  sake  it  is  as 
possible,  as  needful  to  renounce  even  that  which  is 
nearest  and  dearest  to  us.  What  great  reason  have 
we  then  to  search  our  hearts  very  narrowly  that  we 
may  not  be  deceived  1  For  we  must  not  imagine  our- 
selves converted,  though  by  the  advantage  of  a  reli- 
gious education,  wc  may  have  acquired  many  good 
habits ;  and  give  our  consent  to  all  the  sacred  truths, 
but  are  approved  of  by  others,  who  either  ignorant- 
]y,  or  in  a  judgment  of  charity,  take  us  to  be  very 
good  Christians.  Nor  is  it  enough  to  think  that  all 
must  be  well,  and  safe,  because  the  good  work  of 
God  once  was  begun,  or  we  are  still  under  the  draw- 
ings of  his  good  spirit.  In  this  manner  a  great  many 
have  miserably  deluded  their  own  souls :  and  this 
delusion  cannot  be  avoided  but  by  resolutely  break- 
ing forth,  and  pressiiig  to  the  above  mentioned  mark. 
All  our  wakenings  will  be  to  no  purpose,  except  they 
are  improved  to  the  resisting,  even  unto  blood,  in 
striving  against  sin.  If  this  is  not  thy  case,  be  not 
deceived  any  longer,  my  dear  reader,  with  false  no- 
tions of  such  an  important  work :  but  pull  down 
that  old  building  of  thy  own  fancy,  which  will  stand 
thee  in  no  stead  in  the  period  of  death :  and  delay 
not  to  begin  the  new  one  with  all  the  necessary  ap- 
plications in  earnest  prayers  and  wrestlings,  for  the 
obtaining  of  the  right  victory,  and  to  be  not  only 
almost,  but  a  Chrisiian  indeed. 


JANUARY  31.  39 

The  kingdom  of  heaven  is  like  unto  a  merchant  man 
seeking  goodly  pearls ;  who,  when  he  had  found 
one  pearl  of  great  price,  went  and  sold  all  that 
he  had,  and  bought  it.  Matt.  xiii.  46,  46.   There- 
fore lay  up  for  yourselves  treasures  in  heaven  (not 
on  earth  :)  for  where  your  treasure  is,  there  will 
yoiir  heart  he  also.  Matt.  vi.  20,  21. 
The  love  of  money  is  the  root  of  all  evil.     Such 
a  dreadful  description  the  scripture  gives  of  no  oth- 
er vice.     Who  considers  this  enough  ?   These  roots 
lie  often  deeply  concealed  :  if  we  do  not  search  them 
out  to  the  bottom,  but  spare  and  nourish  them  in 
the  least,  they  will  stick  fast  in  our  hearts  ;  and  be- 
fore  the   disposition  of  a   covetous  man  is  truly 
changed  to  be  benevolent  and  charitable,  he  cannot 
have  a  sure  mark  of  his  real  conversion,  and  of 
Christ's  being  the  sublime  good  and  treasure  of  his 
heart.     May  the  Lord  refine  and  put  us  all  in  the 
right  way ! 

Why  doth  the  man  of  riches  grow 

To  insolence  and  pride  ? 
To  see  his  wealth  and  honours  flow 

With  every  rising  tide  ? 
Why  doth  he  treat  the  poor  with  scorn, 

Made  of  the  self-same  clay, 
And  boast  as  though  his  fiesh  were  born 

Of  better  dust  than  they ! 
Not  all  his  treasures  can  procure 

His  soul  a  short  reprieve, 
Redeem  from  death  one  guilty  hour, 

Or  make  his  brother  live. 
The  love  of  gold  be  banish'd  hence, 

That  vile  idolatry, 
And  every  member,  every  sense 
In  sweet  subjection  lie. 


40  FEBRUARY  1. 

This  is  a  faithful  sayings  and  worthy  of  all  accepta- 
tioUf  that  Christ  Jesus  came  into  the  world  to  save 
sinners,  of  whom  lam  the  chief  Hoivbeit,  for  this 
cause,  I  obtained  mercy;  that  in  me,  first  Jesus 
Christ  might  show  forth  all  long  suffering,  for  a 
pattern  to  them-,  which  should  hereafter  believe  on 
him  to  life  everlasting.  1  Tim.  i.  15,  16. 

Whoever  is  in  himself  convinced  that  he  is  a 
very  guilty,  nay,  thechief  of  sinners,  may  look  upon 
himself  also  as  freely  justified  and  saved  through 
Christ ;  he  being  come  to  save  all  sinners  without 
exception,  even  the  most  enormous.  They  who  be- 
lieve this,  make  light  of  no  sin,  far  from  it ;  on  every 
motion  of  sin  they  apply  the  blood  of  Christ,  which 
as  it  is  humbling,  so  it  cherishes  in  them  a  filial 
confidence  to  draw  near  to  God  through  Christ. 

Plung'd  in  a  gulf  of  dark  despair 

We  wretched  sinners  lay  ; 
Without  one  cheerful  beam  of  hope 

Or  spark  of  glimm'ring  day. 

With  pitying  eyes  the  prince  of  grace 

Beheld  our  helpless  grief, 
He  saw,  and  (O  amazing  love !) 

He  ran  to  our  relief. 

Down  from  the  shining  seats  above 

With  joyful  haste  he  fled, 
Enter'd  the  grave  in  mortal  flesh, 

And  dwelt  among  the  dead. 

He  spoil'd  the  powers  of  darkness  thus. 

And  broke  our  iron  chains, 
Jesus  has  freed  our  captive  souls 

From  everlasting  pains. 


FEBRUARY  2.  41 

This  is  his  commandment,  that  we  should  believe  on 
the  name  of  his  Son  Jesus  Christ.  1  John,  iii.23. 
For  God  has  sent  his  Son  into  the  world  that  we 
might  live  through  him.   Chap.  iv.  9. 

The  Father  breaks  forth,  as  it  were,  through  the 
whole  scripture,  in  high  praises  of  his  Son.  He 
calls  out  from  heaven,  "  This  is  my  beloved  Son,  in 
whom  I  am  well  pleased,  hear  ye  him."  Matt.  xvii. 
5.  Nothing  therefore  can  be  more  agreeable  to 
him  than  to  receive  this  his  Son^  and  believe  his  re- 
ports. John,  xvi.  27.  and  on  doing  this,  we  shall 
have  life  :  but  by  omitting  it,  we  look  upon  him  as 
a  liar.  Unbelief  therefore  in  him  who  refuses  to 
accept  of  this  great  gift,  is  no  doubt,  the  greatest  of 
all  sins.     O  Lord,  teach  me  this,  and  grant  me  faith. 

*'  Why  art  thou  so  backward,  O  my  poor  soul, 
to  believe  like  the  rest  of  God's  children,  in  Christ ! 
Hast  thou  not  as  good  a  right  to  it  as  they  have ! 
who  can  dispute  with  thee  this  privilege  !  It  is  the 
express  will  of  the  Father,  nay.  he  even  commands 
thee  to  do  it.  Has^he  given  his  only  Son,  by  an 
act  of  inconceivable  love,  to  die  for  thee,  to  the 
very  end  that  thou  shouldst  live  :  O  what  a  pleas- 
ing thing  will  it  be  to  him,  to  put  thy  whole  trust 
upon  this  his  well-beloved  Sen !  This  would  be 
the  joy  of  his  heart,  more  than  any  thing  else. 
Therefore  delay  no  longer  to  receive  what  his  love 
has  offered  thee ;  but  firmly  believe  that  the  Fa- 
ther loves  thee,  as  well  as  the  Son." 


4* 


42  FEBRUARY  3. 

Worthy  is  the  Lamb  that  ivas  slain,  to  receive  power, 
and  riches,  and  wisdom,  and  strength,  and  ho- 
nour, and  glory,  andhlessing.  Rev.  v.  12. 

O  Lord!  how  mean  and  slight  notions  have  I 
often  of  thy  great  power  ;  by  these  I  am  discour- 
aged, and  thou  art  robbed  of  thy  praise:  grant, 
therefore,  that  though  I  would  always  be  duly  de- 
based, and  convinced  of  iRy  nothingness,  in  such  a 
manner  as  never  to  ascribe  any  good  to  myself,  or 
thinking  myself  worthy  of  the  least  thing  to  the 
prejudice  of  thine  honour;  yet  thy  grace  and  power 
may  at  the  same  time  appear  to  me  abundantly 
greater  than  all  my  sins,  so  that  I  may  have  always 
encouragement  enough  to  believe  in  and  praise  thy 
holy  name. 

Come  let  us  join  our  cheerful  songs. 

With  angels  round  the  throne, 
Ten  thousand  thousand  are  their  tongues, 

But  all  their  joys  are  one. 

Worthy  the  Lamb  that  died,  they  cry, 

To  be  exalted  thus  ; 
Worthy  the  Lamb,  our  lips  reply. 

For  he  was  slain  for  us. 

Let  all  that  dwell  above  the  sky, 

And  air,  and  earth,  and  seas, 
Conspire  to  lift  his  glories  high, 

And  speak  his  endless  praise. 

The  whole  creation  join  in  one. 

To  bless  the  sacred  name 
Of  him  that  sits  upon  the  throne, 

And  to  adore  the  Lamb. 


FEBRUARY  4.  43 

My  soul  shall  he  satisfied  as  with  marrow  and  fat- 
ness, and  my  mouth  shall  j^raise  thee  with  joyful 
lips.  Psal.  Ixiii.  6.  Alleluia!  for  the  Lord  God 
omnipotent  reigns.  Let  us  be  glad  and  rejoice,  and 
give  honour  to  him,  for  the  marriage  of  the  Lamb  is 
come.  Rev.  xix.  6. 

What  tends  not  to  thy  glory,  O  Lord,  and  is  not 
thy  own  work,  whatever  appearance  it  may  have, 
it  is  not  really  good  and  profitable.  Preserve  and 
assist  me,  therefore,  to  do  all  things  as  of  thee,  in 
thy  sight,  and  to  thy  honour  ;  may  my  soul  be  ever 
magnifying  thy  name,  O  my  dear  Redeemer  and 
Bridegroom,  and  my  whole  conversation  be  direct- 
ed to  thy  praise.  Grant  that  my  heart  and  mouth 
may  be  ever  full  of  thy  great  mercies,  and  over- 
flow continually  with  thanksgiving. 

My  God,  my  King,  thy  various  praise 
Shall  fill  the  remnant  of  my  days ; 
Thy  grace  employ  my  humble  tongue 
'Till  death  and  glory  raise  the  song. 

The  wings  of  every  hour  shall  bear 
Some  thankful  tribute  to  thine  ear  ; 
And  every  setting  sun  shall  see 
New  works  of  duty  done  for  thee. 

Thy  truth  and  beauty  I'll  proclaim. 
Thy  bounty  flows  in  endless  stream ; 
Thy  mercy  swift,  thine  anger  slow, 
But  dreadful  to  the  stubborn  foe. 

And  who  can  speak  thy  wondrous  deeds  ? 
Thy  greatness  all  our  thoughts  exceeds  : 
Vast  and  unsearchable  thy  ways. 
Vast  and  immortal  be  thy  praise. 


44  FEBRUARY  5. 

Forsake  not  the  worJcs  of  thy  own  hands.  Psal. 
cxxxviii.  8.  Divine  Answer.  He  which  has  begun 
a  good  work  in  you,  will  perform  it  unto  the  day 
of  Jesus  Christ.  Phil.  i.  6. 

The  right  way  to  grow  in  grace  is  not  to  draw 
it  from  God,  as  it  were,  by  *force,  from  a  wrong 
principle  or  design  ;  but  first,  to  give  thyself  en- 
tirely over  to  thy  heavenly  Father  through  Christ, 
who  knows  what  thou  wantest,  and  will  never  for- 
sake thee.  Secondly,  to  abide  in  Christ,  and  care- 
fully cherish  the  new  life,  which,  be  it  ever  so 
weak  and  little  now,  in  comparison  to  the  old  man, 
will  increase  and  gradually  outgrow  him,  as  new 
skin  does  the  old.  May  the  Lord  only  give  us  grace 
to  watch  against  the  opposite  extreme,  so  as  never 
to  be  lulled  into  a  false  rest,  or  a  lukewarm  spirit ; 
but  to  be  ever  diligently  and  seriously  employed 
in  crucifying  the  flesh,  and  using  all  the  means  of 
grace ;  then  we  need  not  be  anxiously  troubled  for 
the  growing  of  the  work  of  God  in  our  souls. 

My  soul  lies  cleaving  to  the  dust ; 

Lord,  give  me  life  divine, 
From  vain  desires  and  every  lust, 

Turn  off  these  eyes  of  mine. 

I  need  the  influence  of  thy  grace 

To  speed  me  in  thy  way, 
Lest  I  should  loiter  in  my  race, 

Or  turn  my  feet  astray. 

Are  not  thy  mercies  sov'reign  still, 

And  thou  a  faithful  God  ? 
Wilt  thou  not  grant  me  warmer  zeal 

To  run  the  heavenly  road  ? 


FEBRUARY  6.  45 

TJte  fashion  of  this  world  passes  away.  1  Cor. 
vii.  31. 
As  long  as  we  feed  on  the  husks  of  the  world, 
and  are  in  love  with  it,  we  are  neither  willing  nor 
able  to  taste  the  comforts  of  the  love  of  God.  But 
when  sin  and  the  world  are  become  an  ambomina- 
tion  to  us,  and  we  strive  to  get  rid  of  them,  we  are 
fit  vessels  to  receive  him :  then  we  begin  to  hun- 
ger after  him.  And  though  we  are  chastened  by 
the  Lord,  yet  he  is  not  angry  with  us,  but  does  it  to 
embitter  sin  and  the  world,  more  and  more  to  us, 
and  to  make  us  loathe  them,  that  we  may  not  be 
condemned  with  the  world. 

Up  to  the  fields  where  angels  lie, 

And  living  waters  gently  roll, 
Fain  would  my  thoughts  leap  out  and  fly, 

But  sin  hangs  heavy  on  my  soul. 
Thy  wondrous  blood,  dear  dying  Christ, 

Can  make  this  world  of  guilt  remove ; 
And  thou  canst  bear  me  where  thou  fly'st 

On  thy  kind  wings,  celestial  dove. 
O  might  I  once  mount  up  and  see 

The  glories  of  the  eternal  skies, 
What  little  things  these  worlds  would  be  ? 

How  despicable  to  my  eyes ! 
Had  I  a  glance  of  thee,  my  God, 

Kingdoms  and  men  would  vanish  soon, 
Vanish  as  though  I  saw  them  not, 

As  a  dim  candle  dies  at  noon. 
Great  All  in  All,  eternal  King, 

Let  me  but  view  thy  lovely  face. 
And  all  my  powers  shall  bow  and  sing 

Thine  endless  grandeur  and  thy  grace. 


46  FEBRUARY  7. 

Thine  is  the  kingdom^  and  the  power,  and  the  glory, 
for  ever  and  ever,  Amen.  Matt.  vi.  13.  They  cast 
their  crowns  hef(yre  the  throne,  saying,  Thou  art 
worthy,  O  Lord,  to  receive  glory,  and  honour,  and 
power.  Rev.  iv.  10,  11.  Praise  ye  the  Lord  as 
much  as  ye  can,  he  is  still  higher ;  nay,  he  is  all, 
and  but  a  little  portion  is  heard  of  him.  Eccles. 
xliii.  29—32.  Job.  xxvi.  14. 

One  that  is  really  poor  in  spirit,  though  he  has 
practised  the  duties  of  the  Christian  life  ever  so 
long,  and  so  well,  always  thinks  himself  to  have 
received  but  a  very  little  portion  of  Christ,  and  the 
work  of  sanctification  hardly  begun  in  his  soul. 
So  far  is  he  from  believing  he  has  already  attained 
to  it,  that  after  all  his  best  actions,  he  counts  him- 
self not  worthy  to  be  called  by  the  name  of  a 
grateful  son  ;  he  is  never  pleased  with  himself.  No 
degree  of  holiness  will  satisfy  his  soul.  He  seeks 
and  finds  no  rest  or  comfort,  but  in  the  infinite  mer- 
cy of  God,  and  in  the  pardon  of  his  sins  by  faith ; 
though  he  does  not  divide  Christ,  but  receives  him 
in  all  his  offices,  and  gives  himself  entirely  up  to 
him  without  reserve,  to  be  more  and  more  sancti- 
fied and  perfected.  And  in  this  state  he  is  safe  in- 
deed, he  is  prepared  for  death,  and  has  no  reason  to 
be  anxiously  troubled  for  higher  degrees  of  sancti- 
fication. Death  might  come  upon  him  before  he 
arrived  to  it ;  and  even  his  very  best  actions,  with- 
out a  sense  of  God's  forgiveness,  would  not  sup- 
port and  comfort  him  in  death. 

All  the  assembling  saints  around 
Fall  worshipping  before  the  Lamb, 

And  in  new  songs  of  gospel  sound) 
Address  their  honours  to  his  name. 


FEBRUARY  8.  47 

Hallowed  he  thy  name.  Matt.  v.  9.  For  Tie  must 
increase,  and  I  must  decrease.  John,  iii.  30. 
Chris  fs  intercession.  John,  xvii.  1 — 19.  Ho- 
ly Father,  keep  them  through  thine  own  name, 
sanctify  them  through  thy  truth.  For  their 
saJces  I  sanctify  myself,  that  they  also  might 
be  sanctified  through  the  truth. 

We  must  not  only  plead  our  own  cause  in  our 
prayers,  but  have  the  cause  and  the  glory  of  God 
at  heart ;  intercede  for  all  without  distinction,  and 
carefully  avoid  that  uncharitable  narrowness  of 
spirit,  so  common  to  all  parties,  by  which  we  seek 
only  our  own,  and  selfishly  labour  to  erect,  as  it 
were,  a  new  kingdom  of  God,  even  on  the  ruins  of 
others,  and  at  their  expense.  But  this  is  not  the 
right  communion  of  all  saints  in  the  whole  uni- 
verse. 

Many  are  we  now,  and  one, 
We  who  Jesus  have  put  on  ; 
Names,  and  sects,  and  parties  fall, 
Thou,  O  Christ,  art  all  in  all! 

Move,  and  actuate,  and  guide, 
Divers  gifts  to  each  divide  ; 
Plac'd  according  to  thy  will, 
Let  us  all  our  work  fulfil. 

One  the  Father  is  with  thee  j 
Knit  as  in  like  unity : 
Make  us,  O  uniting  Son, 
One,  as  thou  and  he  are  one. 


48  FEBRUARY  9. 

Thy  kingdom  come.  Matt.  vi.  10.  Divine  answer. 
Behold,  the  kingdom  of  God,  is  within  t/ou,  (and 
amongst  you.)  Luke  xvii.  22.  The  kingdom  of 
God,  is  not  in  word,  hut  in  power.  1  Cor.  iv.  20. 
Consisting  in  righteousness^  peace  and  joy  of  the 
Holy  Ghost.  Rom.  xiv.  17. 

O !  how  many  thousands  deceive  themselves, 
with  a  vain,  dead  presumption  of  faith,  moral  ho- 
nesty and  fine  words  ;  whilst  the  lust  of  the  flesh, 
the  lust  of  the  eyes,  and  the   pride  of  life,   still 
have  the  dominion  in  their  liearts.     Consequently 
the  power  of  Christ,  by  which  even  the  most  be- 
loved idol,  is  cast  down  and  trod  under  feet,  has  no 
place  in  them.     O  Lord,  help  thy  children,  that 
they  may  not  return  again  to  vanity  ;  some  being 
still  entangled  even  in  their  old  age.     May  this 
never  be  my  case,  I  beseech  thee. 
The  gospel  bids  the  dead  revive, 
Sinners  obey  the  voice  and  live  : 
Dry  bones  are  rais'd,  and  cloth'd  afresh. 
And  hearts  of  stone  are  turn'd  to  flesh. 
This  is  the  word  of  truth  and  love. 
Sent  to  the  nations  from  above  ; 
Jehovah  here  resolves  to  show 
What  his  almighty  grace  can  do. 
This  remedy  did  wisdom  find, 
To  heal  diseases  of  the  mind, 
This  sovereign  balm,  whose  virtues  can 
Restore  the  ruin'd  creature,  man. 
Where  Satan  reign'd  in  shades  of  night, 
The  gospel  strikes  a  heavenly  light, 
Our  lust  its  wondrous  power  controls. 
And  calms  the  rage  of  angry  souls. 


FEBRUARY  10.  49 

Thy  will  he  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in  heanen.  Matt, 
vi.  10.  Answer.  God  will  have  all  mento  he  sav- 
ed, and  to  come  unto  the  knowledge  of  the  truth  : 
for  there  is  one  God,  and  one  Mediator,  hetween 
God  and  man,  the  man  Christ  Jesus  who  gave  him- 
self a  ransom  for  all.  1  Tim.  ii.  4,  6.  Therefore 
he  is  not  willing  that  any  should  perish,  hut  that 
all  should  come  to  repentance.  2  Pet.  iii.  9.  Ezek. 
xiii.  23,  32. 

O  the  inestimable  riches  of  universal  grace !  this 
minute,  O  my  distressed  soul,  thou  canst  lay  hold 
on  them,  and  firmly  believe  this  promise  to  belong 
even  to  thee,  and  that  thy  lovely  Saviour  is  as  wil- 
ling, as  he  is  able  to  save  thee  from  all  thy  sins. 
Whatever  objections  may  be  raised  against  it,  and 
engross  thy  thoughts,  hearken  not  to  them,  but  re- 
solutely reject  them  as  the  most  detestable  sugges- 
tions of  the  devil,  who  above  all  things,  fights  most 
against  faith,  knowing  well  enough  that  unbehef  is 
the  source  of  all  wickedness.  Therefore,  mind 
him  not,  he  is  a  Har.  But  the  word  of  God  may 
be  depended  upon  :  hence  thou  mayest  confidently 
say,  that  I  am  exceedingly  corrupted,  is  too  true  ; 
but  not  beyond  the  infinite  grace  and  power  of  God. 
Still  1  am  a  man  :  and  he  being  wilhng  that  no  man 
should  perish,  but  that  all  should  be  saved ;  this  his 
will  is  to  me,  the  surest  pledge  of  my  justification, 
sanctification,  and  salvation.  It  is  his  will,  and  it 
is  mine  too,  that  I  should  be  saved :  wh^t  enemy 
then  can  hinder  it  ? 

But  O  my  soul,  for  ever  praise, 

For  ever  love  his  name. 
Who  turns  thy  feet  from  dangerous  ways 

Of  folly,  sin,  and  shame. 
5 


50  FEBRUARY  li. 

Light  is  sown  for  the  righteous^  and  gladness  far 
the  upright  in  heart.  Psal.  xcvii.  11.  Unto  the 
upright  there  arises  light  in  darkness;  he  is  gra^ 
cious-,  full  of  compassion,  and  righteous.  Psal. 
cxii.  4.  Therefore  cast  not  away  confidence,  which 
has  great  recompense  of  reward ;  for  ye  have  need 
of  patience,  S^c.  For  yet  a  little  while,  and  he  that 
shall  come  will  come,  and  will  not  tarry.  Heb.  x. 
.36,37.  Isaiah  Iviii.  10,  11,  12. 

^his  shows  that  believers  are  subject  to  many 
changes  of  joy  and  sorrow.  In  a  state  of  gladness, 
therefore,  we  have  reason  to  fear  :  and  in  the  hours 
of  trouble  and  sadness,  to  entertain  good  hopes. 
Thus  we  shall  always  be  able  to  keep  the  happy 
medium  between  the  extremes  of  levity  and  despair. 
Before  a  man  has  a  true  sense  of  his  own  miseries, 
the  complaints  and  infirmities  of  the  saints,  are  of- 
ten a  stumbHng-block;  but  afterwards,  they  will 
administer  him  great  comfort.  This  is  the  reason 
that  God  has  revealed  them  in  scripture  ;  for  the 
complaints  of  his  children,  and  elect,  as  Luther 
observes,  gives  more  comfort  than  all  their  most 
heroic  actions. 

Alas !  it  swells  my  sorrows  high, 
To  see  my  blessed  Jesus  frown  : 

My  spirits  sink,  my  comforts  die, 
And  all  the  springs  of  life  are  down. 

Yet  why,  my  soul,  why  these  complaints  ? 

Still  while  he  frowns  his  bowels  move  : 
Still  on  his  heart  he  bears  his  saints. 

And  feels  their  sorrows,  and  his  love. 


FEBRUARY  12.  bl 

For  in  that  he  himself  has  suffered,  being  tempted, 
he  is  able  to  succour  them  that  are  tempted.  Heb. 
ii.  18.  For  we  have  not  a  high  priest  which  cannot 
be  touched  with  the  feeling  of  our  infirmities,  but 
was  in  all  points  tempted  like  as  we  are,  yet  with- 
out sin-  Chap.  iv.  18. 

To  have  this  High-Priest  and  Saviour,  is  to  be- 
lieve in  him,  though  in  vi^eakness  and  trembhng. 
The  sensible,  sweet,  and  full  assurance  of  his  in- 
dwelling, proceeds  from  the  sealing  of  the  Spirit, 
which  follows  afterwards,  and  is  not  always  expe- 
rienced in  a  state  of  darkness  and  temptation. 
But  the  Lord  disowns  us  not  for  wanting  it,  but 
graciously  bears  with  our  infirmities. 

With  joy  we  meditate  the  grace 

Of  ouF  High  Priest  above, 
His  heart  is  made  of  tenderness, 

Hi^  bowels  melt  with  love. 

Touch'd  with  a  sympathy  within, 

He  knows  our  feeble  frame, 
He  knows  what  sore  temptations  meaii^ 

For  he  has  feh  the  same. 

He  in  the  days  of  feeble  flesh 

Pour'd  out  his  cries  and  tears, 
And  in  a  measure  feels  afresh 

What  every  member  bears. 

Then  let  our  humble  faith  address 

His  mercy  and  his  power, 
We  shall  obtain  deliv'ring  grace 

In  the  distressing  hour. 


52  FEBRUARY  13. 

God  was  in  Christ,  reconciling  the  world  unto  him- 
self-, not  imputing  their  trespasses  unto  them;  for 
he  has  made  Mm  to  he  sin  for  us  who  knew  no  sin, 
that  we  might  be  made  the  righteousness  of  God 
in  him.  2  Cor.  v.  19,  21.  Col.  i.  20.   1  Pet.  ii.  24. 

It  highly  concerns  all  believers,  who  are  desirous 
to  have  always  peace  and  support  within,  to  be 
ever  sensible  of  their  own  misery,  and  spiritual 
poverty,  and  so  to  live,  and  rest  solely  and  wholly 
in  the  all-sufficient  atonement  and  righteousness  of 
Christ  Jesus  our  Saviour.  Disquietness  and  lazi- 
ness generally  proceed  from  self-righteousness,  and 
our  not  looking  up  and  being  indebted  to  him  for 
every  thing,  but  secretly  trusting  in  something  in 
ourselves. 

Jesus,  thou  art  my  righteousness, 

For  all  my  sins  were  thine, 
Thy  death,  has  bought  of  God  my  peace, 

Thy  life  has  made  him  mine. 

Spotless  and  just  in  thee  I  am : 

I  feel  my  sins  forgiven  : 
I  taste  salvation  in  thy  name, 

And  antedate  my  heaven. 

For  ever  here  my  rest  shall  be. 

Close  to  thy  bleeding  side  ; 
'Tis  all  my  hope,  and  all  my  plea : 

For  me  the  Saviour  died ! 

My  dying  Saviour  and  my  God, 

Fountain  for  guilt  and  sin, 
Sprinkle  me  ever  in  thy  blood, 

And  cleanse  and  keep  me  clean. 


FEBRUARY  14.  b% 

Nevertheless  I  am  continually  with  thee.  Th<m 
hast  holden  me  by  my  right  hand.  Thou  shall 
guide  me  with  thy  counsel-,  and  afterwards  re- 
ceive me  into  thy  glory.  Whom  have  I  in  heaven 
but  thee  ?  and  there  is  none  upon  earth  that  I 
desire  besides  thee.  My  flesh  and  rry  heart  fail- 
etht  but  God  is  the  strength  of  my  heart  and  my^ 
portion  for  ever.  Psal.  Ixxiii.  23 — 26.  Psal.  xyi. 
18. 

Babes  in  religion  not  only  long  for  Christ,  but  foi;, 
sensible  communion  with  him  ;  and  very  often  they 
are  indulged  with  it,  that  they  ^nay  be  weaned 
from  the  world.  But  those  of  fuller  age,  who 
have  their  senses  more  exercised,  are  content  to^ 
have  him  only,  and  to  be  adopted  by  him  ;  relying 
more  on  the  word  and  covenant  of  God,  than  upon 
sweet  sensations  of  the  soul,  which,  in  times  of  trial 
and  temptations,  are  often  wanting. 

How  oft  have  sin  and  Satan  strove 

To  rend  my  soul  from  thee,  my  God  ?> 

But  everlasting  is  thy  love, 

And  Jesus  seals  it  with  his  blood. 

Amidst  temptations  sharp  and  long, 
My  soul  to  this  dear  refuge  flies ; 

Hope  is  my  anchor,  firm  and  strong, 
While  tempests  blow  and  billows  rise. 

The  gospel  bears  my  spirits  up : 
A  faithful  and  unchanging  God 

Lays  the  foundation  for  my  hope, 
in  oaths,  and  promises,  and  blood. 


5* 


54  FEBRUARY  15. 

There  is  a  river,  the  streams  thereof  shall  make  glad 
the  city  of  God.  God  is  in  the  midst  of  her,  she 
shall  not  be  moved.  Psal.  xlvi.  4,  5.  Ye  that  are 
of  God,  little  children,  and  have  overcome  them; 
because  greater  is  he  that  is  in  you,  than  he  that 
is  in  the  world.  1  John  iv.  4.  Psal.  ex.  2.  Zech. 
ii.  5. 

True  Christians  still  are  subject  to  temptations 
from  within  and  without ;  but  watching  unto  prayer 
they  do  not  fall  by  them.  On  the  contrary,  as 
temptations  are  great  helps  to  discover  their  hidden 
infirmities,  and  stir  them  up  to  be  more  cautious, 
Berious  and  faithful,  they  are  followed  and  reward- 
ed with  great  and  glorious  victories  ;  consequently 
are  so  far  from  being  half  a  fall,  that  they  rather 
serve  to  keep  believers  from  falling.  What  rea- 
son have  we  then  to  be  afraid  of  temptations,  since 
every  one  carries  a  new  blessing  along  with  it  ? 
How  honourable  is  the  place 

Where  we  adoring  stand, 
Zion,  the  glory  of  the  earth, 

And  beauty  of  the  land. 
Bulwarks  of  mighty  grace  defend 

The  city  where  we  dwell, 
The  walls  of  strong  salvation  made, 

Defy  the  assaults  of  hell. 
Trust  in  the  Lord,  for  ever  trust, 

And  banish  all  your  fears  ; 
Strength  in  the  Lord  Jehovah,  dwells. 

Eternal  as  his  years. 
What  though  the  rebels  dwell  on  high, 

His  arm  shall  bring  them  low. 
Low  as  the  caverns  of  the  grave, 
Their  lofty  heads  shall  bow. 


FEBRUARY  16.  55 

For  our  light  affliction,  which  is  hut  for  a  moment^ 
works  for  us  a  far  more  exceeding  and  eternal 
weight  of  glory-,  while  we  look  not  at  the  things 
which  are  s^^en ;  for  the  things  which  are  seen  are 
temporal,  but  the  things  ichich  are  not  seen  are 
eternal.  2  Cor.  iv.  17, 18.  Therefore,  blessed  ai'e 
the  dead  which  die  in  the  Lord,  note-,  from  hence- 
forth; yea,  saith  the  spirit,  that  they  may  rest 
from  their  labours-,  (also  from  all  their  afflictions) 
and  their  works  do  follow  them.     Rev.  xiv.  13. 

Some  pretend  to  be  so  evangelical  as  to  have  no 
longer  any  inward  troubles  and  vexations  ;  neither 
will  they  allow  of  such  prayers,  or  other  acts  of 
Christian  duty  and  devotion,  as  are  done  with  any 
reluctance  of  heart,  calling  them  legal  and  merito- 
rious works  of  our  own.  This  would  be  true,  if 
there  were  in  a  true  Christian,  no  remains  of  un- 
belief and  sin,  which  often  make  him  dull  and 
heavy,  and  must  be  always  overcome,  as  it  were, 
by  force  :  though  the  spirit  be  willing,  and  in  the 
midst  of  all  troubles  and  groanings,  longs  the  more 
after  that  perfect  rest  above. 

Our  sins,  alas !  how  strong  they  be, 

And  like  a  raging  sea, 
They  break  our  duty,  Lord  to  thee, 

And  hurry  us  away. 

The  waves  of  trouble,  how  they  rise ! 

How  loud  the  tempests  roar  ! 
But  death  shall  land  our  weary  soul 

Safe  on  the  heavenly  shore. 


66  FEBRUARY  17. 

The  jpeace  of  God^  which  passeth  all  under-^- 
standing,  shall  keep  your  hearts  and  minds, 
fhrough  Christ  Jesus.  Phil.  iv.  7.  Isa.  liii.  5. 
Col.  i.  10. 

As  long  as  a  man  sees  no  good  in  himself,  and  yet 
finds  every  thing  in  Christ,  his  heart  enjoys  a  heav- 
enly peace.  But  as  soon  as  he  is  puffed  up,  and 
does  not  seek  and  find  his  rest  and  salvation  pure- 
ly and  solely  in  the  forgiveness  of  his  sins,  he  steps 
out  into  a  false  road,  which  is  full  of  disquietness. 
These  are  the  words  of  the  late  pious  Mr.  Profes- 
sor Francke. 

Lord,  how  secure  and  blest  are  they 
Who  feel  the  joys  of  pardon'd  sin  ! 

Should  storms  of  wrath  shake  earth  and  sea, 
Their  minds  have  heaven  and  peace  within. 

The  day  glides  swiftly  o'ef  their  heads, 
Made  up  of  innocence  and  love, 

And  soft,  and  silent  as  the  shades 
Their  nightly  minutes  gently  move. 

How  oft  they  look  to  the  heav'nly  hills 
Where  groves  of  living  pleasure  grow, 

And  longing  hopes  and  fearless  smiles, 
Sit  undisturb'd  upon  their  brow. 

While  wretched  we,  like  worms  and  mol^s, 
Lie  grov'Uing  in  the  dust  below  : 

Almighty  grace  renew  our  souls, 
And  we'll  aspire  to  glory  too. 


FEBRUARY  18.  57 

The  Lord  preserves  the  simple ;  I  was  "brought  low, 
and  he  helped  me.  Psal.  cxvi.  6. 

He  who  walks  in  godly  simplicity  and  humility, 
accounting  his  own  infirmities  always  the  greatest, 
will  best  be  preserved  from  ^eing  pufted  up  and 
sifted  by  the  enemy  of  souls.  And  surely  nothing 
should  humble  us  more,  than  justification  by  free 
grace.  The  more  we  consider  and  carefully  cher- 
ish that,  the  more  this  simple,  childlike,  quiet  tem- 
per will  increase  ;  for  since  there  is  nothing  in  our- 
selves which  can  be  depended  upon,  but  all  must 
be  freely  received  from  Christ :  this,  at  the  same 
time  cutting  off  all  vain  boasting,  brings  us  low, 
settles  our  peace  on  Christ,  who  is  our  all,  and  is 
sure  enough  to  be  rested^ upon. 

It  is  only  from  thee,  O  my  dear  Saviour,  I  can 
learn  true  siinnplicity ;  teach  me  therefore  to  turn 
my  eye  not  upon  others,  but  upon  myself.  Hum- 
ble me  to  the  utmost,  and  fashion  me  after  thy  own 
mind,  that  I  may  be  careful  to  avoid  every  thing 
that  is  contrary  to  love.  Keep  me,  O  my  light, 
from  all  self-conceitedness,  bridle  my  carnal  reason, 
pull  down  ail  vain  imaginations.  Grant  that  my 
eye  may  be  fixed  only  upon  that  one  thing  need- 
ful which  ia^as  eternally ;  and  that  in  aU  my  words, 
deeds,  and  gestures,  I  may  always  resemble  the 
simpHcity,  innocence,  fidelity,  and  love  of  a  little 
child.     Matt.  xiii.  3. 


58  FEBRUARY  19. 

The  Lord  is  my  shepherd.  I  shall  not  want.  Psal. 
xxiii.  1.  He  says  it  himself.  lam  come  that  they 
might  have  life-,  and  that  they  might  have  it  more 
abundantly.  I  give  unto  t'hem  eternal  life,  and 
they  shall  never  perish,  neither  shall  any  plucTc 
them  out  of  my  hands.  John  x.  10,28. 

The  Lord  being  my  shepherd  also,  what  then 
can  I  want  ?  Nothing  that  is  really  good  for  me. 
The  sense  of  it  may  sometimes  be  wanting ;  but 
even  this  want  is  the  beginning  of  a  greater  full- 
ness, and  certainly  works  for  my  good.  It  stirreth 
me  up  to  pray  more  earnestly  ;  and  thus  my  wants 
drive  me  to  the  green  pastures,  and  to  the  brooks 
of  fresh  water,  even- to  my  good  shepherd,  who  is. 
himself  the  bestfood^  and  the  spripg  pf  ^ivipg  waterx. 

My  shepherd  is  the  living  Lord : 
'   Now  shall  my  wants  be  well  supplied : 
His  prbvidence  and  holy  word 
Become  my  safety  and  my  ^uid^. 

In  pastures  where  salvation  grows, 
He  mak«s  me  feed,  he  makes  me  rest; 

There  living  water  gently  flows, 
And  all  the  food  divinely  blest. 

My  wand'ring  feet  his  ways  mistake, 
But  he  restores  my  soul  to  peace, 

And  leads  me  for  his  mercy's  sake 
In  the  fair  paths  of  righteousness.. 

Though  I  walk  through  the  gloomy  vale, 
Where  death  and  all  his  terrors  are, 

My  heart  and  hope  shall  never  fail. 
For  God  my  shepherd's  with  me  therOo 


FEBRUARY.  20.  5§ 

The  Lord  is  our  king,  he  will  save  us.  Isa.  xxxiii; 
22.  The  Lord  is  strong  and  mighty  in  battle. 
Psal.  xxiv.  8.  The  voice  of  rejoicing  and  salva- 
tion is  in  the  tabernacle  of  the  righteous,  the  right 
hand  of  the  Lord  does  valiantly.  Psal.  cxviii.  152. 
Therefore  1  can  do  all  things  through  Christ 
which  strengtheneth  me.  Phil.  iv.  l3.  For  here 
is  Emmanuel.  Isa.  viii.  10. 

No  victory  without  a  combat,  and  combats  some- 
times are  attended  with  dangerous  wounds  ;  but 
this  only  humbles  us,  and  makes  us  more  circum-, 
spect.  Abide,  therefore,  always  in  the  wounds  of 
Jesus,  which  will  certainly  make  thee  whole  and 
strong  in  faith,  so  as  to  baffle  all  the  assaults  of  thine 
enemies,  and  gladly  to  sing  in  thy  tabernacle, 
**  Thanks  be  unto  God,  who  always  causes  us  to 
triumph  in  Christ."  2  Cor.  ii.  14. 

Whence  do  our  mournful  thoughts  arise  ? 

And  where's  our  courage  fled  ? 
Has  restless  sin  and  raging  hell 
Struck  all  our  comforts  dead  ? 
Have  we  forgot  the  almighty  name 
That  form'd  the  earth  and  sea? 
And  can  an  all-creating  arm 

Grow  weary  or  decay  ? 
Treasures  of  everlasting  might 

In  our  Jehovah  dwell. 
He  gives  the  conquest  to  the  weak, 

And  treads  their  foes  to  hell. 
The  saints  shall  mount  on  eagle's  wings, 

And  taste  the  promis'd  bliss, 
Till  their  unwearied  feet  arrive 
Where  perfect  pleasure  is. 


60  FEBRUARY  21. 

The  Lord  hath  delivered  my  soul  in  'peace.     PsaU 
Iv.  19. 

O*  Lord,  give  me  grace  always  to  seek  and  find 
rest  for  my  spirit  and  conscience  in  thy  wounds, 
and  never  yield  to  the  condemnation  of  the  law ; 
but  to  be  as  ready  on  the  other  hand  to  mortify  the 
desires  of  the  flesh,  so  as  to  fall  neither  into  slavish 
fear,  and  distrust,  nor  into  carnal  rest  and  security  ; 
but  to  make  good  use  both  of  the  law  and  the 
gospel  in  its  turn,  and  so  to  adorn  myself  continu- 
ally, that  I  may  be  ready  to  follow  thyi  call  to  the 
place  of  everlasting  rest,  witliout  any  further  warn- 
ing. 

Jesus,  I  throw  my  arms  around, 

And  hang  upon  thy  breast ; 
Without  a  gracious  smile  from  thee, 

My  spirit  cannot  rest. 

Oh !  tell  me  that  my  worthless  name 

Is  graven  on  thy  hands  ; 
Show  me  some  promise  in  thy  book, 

Where  my  salvation  stands. 

Give  me  one  kind  assuring  word. 

To  sink  my  fears  again  ; 
And  cheerfully  my  soul  shall  wait, 

Her  threescore  years  and  ten. 


FEBRUARY  22.  61 

The  Lord  bless  thee  and  keep  thee ;  the  Lord  make  his 
face  to  shine  upon  thee,  and  be  gracious  unto  thee ; 
the  Lord  lift  up  his  countenance  uponthee,  and  give 
iheepeace.  Numb.  vi.  24,  25,  26.  Peace  I  leave 
with  you,  my  peace  I  give  unto  you,  not  as  the  world 
gives,  give  I  unto  you.  Let  not  your  heart  be  trou' 
bled,  neither  let  it  be  afraid,  I  will  not  leave  you 
comfortless;  Iwill  come  to  you.  John  xiv.  27,  28. 
In  the  world  ye  shall  have  tribulation,  but  be  of 
good  cheer,  I  have  overcome  the  world.  Chap,  xvi, 
33. 

Being  still  in  the  world,  we  cannot  be  without 
trouble ;  nay,  out  of  Christ,  every  thing  causes 
trouble.  But  that  we  should  not  be  weighed 
down  by  it,  he  says,  Abide  in  me ;  in  me  ye  have 
peace.  This  carrieth  us  safely  through  all  tribu- 
lations. O  Lord,  grant  that  I  may  ever  be  found 
in  the  strong  hold  of  thy  wounds,  and  enjoy  peace 
amidst  all  the  troubles  of  this  world. 

Bless' d  be  the  Father  and  his  love, 
To  whose  celestial  source  we  owe 

Rivers  of  endless  joy  above. 
And  rills  of  comfort  here  below. 

Glory  to  thee,  great  Son  of  God, 

From  whose  dear  wounded  body,  rolls 

A  precious  stream  of  vital  blood, 
Pardon  and  life  for  dying  souls. 

We  give  thee,  sacred  Spirit,  praise, 
Who  in  our  hearts  of  sin  and  wo 

Makes  living  springs  of  grace  arise. 
And  into  endless  glory  flow. 
6 


62  FEBRUARY  23. 

The  Lord  do  that  which  seems  him  good,  2,  Sam# 
X.  12, 

A  Christian  still  feels  the  motions  of  self-will, 
and  consequently  of  sin,  in  his  heart.  And  if  it  be 
asked,  how  can  Christ  and  sin  dwell  together  in 
one  heart  ?  the  answer  is,  As  a  king  and  rebels  in 
one  kingdom  or  town.  He  does  not  agree  or  cor- 
respond with  them,  but  subdues  them,  and  main- 
tains peace.  But  where  self-will  has  the  dominion, 
there  is  nothing  but  trouble  and  confusion  ;  for  un- 
sanctified  passions  and  a  bad  conscience  not  only 
are  inward  tortures,  but  often  turn  to  our  great  dis- 
advantage, even  in  worldly  affairs  ;  whereas  in  the 
blood  of  Christ  we  have  a  good  conscience,  abund- 
ance of  peace,  and  can  be  content  and  happy  in 
the  most  indifferent  outward  circumstances. 

Take  great  heed,  therefore,  O  my  dear  Chris- 
tian, never  to  be  led  by  thy  own  spirit,  were  it  even 
in  such  things  as  seem  to  bring  glory  to  God,  if  it  is 
not  of  his  own  appointment.  Our  hearts  sometimes 
are  very  deceitfully  desirous  of  what  pleases  our- 
selves, while  we  pretend  to  seek  God's  glory  ;  and 
were  we  not  crossed  in  these  our  designs,  they 
would  prove  a  great  burden  to  our  life.  Blessed  is 
he,  who  not  only  prays  with  his  lips,  but  is  heartily 
wiUing  also  that  nothing  but  the  will  of  the  Lord 
should  be  done  in  every  thing.  It  is  he  alone  that 
understands  what  may  be  good  or  dangerous  to  our 
spiritual  or  temporal  circumstances.  We  being 
often  blinded  and  drawn  by  our  lusts,  are  too  much 
inclined  to  choose  at  random  what  woujd  perhaps 
be  most  detrimental. 


FEBRUARY  24.  63 

The  Lord  will  regard  the  prayer  of  the  destitute, 
and  not  despise  their  prayers.  Psal.  cii.  17. 
They  looked  unto  him  and  were  lightened,  and 
their  faces  were  not  ashamed.  Psal.  xxxiv.5.  See 
also  the  instance  of  the  woman  of  Canaan.  Matt. 
XV.  21 — 28 .  And  what  Christ  says,LuJcei  xi.  5. — 
13.  Chap,  xviii.  1 — 8.  Likewise  of  a  tossed 
vessel.  Matt.  viii.  24—27. 

The  load  of  outward  and  inward  afflictions  is 
not  always  prayed  away  with  a  few  words,  or  in  a 
few  days.  Sometimes  it  is  necessary  even  to  wres- 
tle with  God,  and  be  very  instant  too.  How  else 
could  faith  and  patience  be  exercised  ?  If,  there- 
fore, the  trials  are  sharp  and  lasting,  it  is  not  to 
weaken  our  faith  ;  but  to  stir  us  up  to  be  more  in- 
stant, zealous  in  prayer,  and  the  right  use  of  the 
word  of  God  ;  and  by  these  means  to  be  so  much 
more  gloriously  delivered  and  strengthened  in  faith  ; 
for  whatever  God  sends  upon  us,  it  is  not  for  the 
lessening,  but  for  the  increase  of  our  faith. 

God  is  the  refuge  of  his  saints, 

When  storms  of  sharp  distress  invade  ; 

Ere  we  can  offer  our  complaints, 
Behold  him  present  with  his  aid. 

Let  mountains  from  their  seats  be  hurl'd 
Down  to  the  deep,  and  buried  there  ; 

Convulsions  shake  the  solid  world, 
Our  faith  shall  never  yieid  to  fear. 

Loud  may  the  troubled  ocean  roar, 
In  sacred  peace  our  souls  abide, 

While  every  nation  every  shore, 

Trembles  and  dreads  the  swelling  tide. 


64  FEBRUARY  25. 

/  dwell  in  the  high  and  holy  place,  with  him  also, 
that  is  of  a  contrite  and  humble  spirit,  to  revive  the 
spirit  qfthe  humble,  and  to  revive  the  heart  of  the 
contrite  ones.  For  I  will  not  contend  for  ever  ^ 
neither  will  I  be  always  wroth,  for  the  spirit  should 
fail  before  me f  and  the  souls  which  I  have  made. 
Isa.  Ivii.  15,  16. 

To  insist  too  much  upon  the  sensible  joy  of  faith, 
might  produce  a  wrong  joy,  and  make  weak  souls 
weaker  still.  Many  a  sincere  Christian's  heart,  is 
like  a  bottle  of  a  very  narrow  passage,  which  can 
receive  the  dew  of  heavenly  comfort  only  by  little 
drops.  But  dost  thou  feel  thyself  quite  naked  and 
void  of  all  good.  Christ  will  surely  cover  thee 
with  the  robes  of  righteousness.  Go  entirely  out 
of  thyself,  looking  only  to  him  for  every  thing  ; 
and  whatever  gift  of  joy,  peace,  and  hoHness,  may 
be  given  thee,  trust  not  to  them,  but  to  Christ  alone, 
This  will  make  thee  sure,  and  keep  thy  heart  at 
rest. 

Thus  saith  the  high  and  lofty  One, 
I  sit  upon  my  holy  throne  ; 
My  name  is  God,  I  dwell  on  high ; 
Dwell  in  my  own  eternity. 

But  I  descend  to  worlds  below, 
On  earth  l  have  a  mansion  too  ; 
The  humble  spirit  and  contrite, 
Is  an  abode  of  my  delight. 

The  humble  soul  my  words  revive, 
I  bid  the  mourning  sinner  live  ; 
Heal  all  the  broken  hearts  I  find, 
And  ease  the  sorrows  of  the  mind. 


FEBRUARY  26.  65 

One  of  the  soldiers  with  a  spear  pierced  his  side^ 
and  forthwith  came  thereout  blood  and  water, 
John,  xix.  34. 

Here  the  fountain  of  grace  and  salvation,  is 
opened  for  cleansing  us  from  all  sin  and  unclean- 
ness.  If  thou  only  canst  and  will  acknowledge  and 
accuse  thyself  in  every  thing,  (sins  and  duties,)  to 
be  a  trangressor,  and  humbly  desirestto  be  sprink- 
led and  washed  by  the  blood  of  Christ,  thou  canst 
do  enough,  and  art  blessed  indeed.  Matt,  v.  6» 
Heb.  ix.   13,   14. 

My  Saviour's  pierced  side, 

Pour'd  out  a  double  flood; 
By  water  we  are  purified, 

And  pardon' d  by  the  blood. 

Look  up,  my  soul,  to  him 

Whose  death  was  thy  desert,  .  • 

And  humbly  view  the  Uving  stream 
Flow  from  his  breaking  heart. 

There  on  the  cursed  tree, 

In  dying  pangs  he  lies  ; 
Fulfils  the  Father's  great  decree, 

And  all  our  wants  supplies. 

Thus  the  Redeemer  came 

By  water  and  by  blood ;         x 
And  when  the  spirit  speaks  the  same. 

We  feel  his  witness  good. 

Lord,  cleanse  my  soul  from  sin. 

Nor  let  thy  grace  depart ; 
Great  Comforter,  abide  within,. 

And  witness  to  my  heart. 

6* 


66  FEBRUARY  27. 

Satan  has  desired  to  have  you-,  that  he  might  sift  you 
ax  wheat;  but  I  have  prayed  for  thee-  that  thy  faith 
fail  not.  Luke  xxii.  31.  52.  Yet  shall  not  the 
least  grain  fall  upon  the  earth.  Amos,  ix.  9.  For 
I  will  keep  thee  from  the  hour  of  temptation.  Rev. 
iii.  10. 

Sometimes  we  may  imagine  ourselves  to  be  di- 
vinely convinced  of  the  will  of  God,  both  by  seem- 
ing outward  providences,  and  inward  persuasions 
of  faith ;  and  yet  it  is  possible  that  the  siftings  of 
Satan,  arc  at  the  bottom  :  however  the  Lord  will 
over-rule  him  at  last,  and  order  all  things  for  the 
best,  for  his  people.  May  the  Lord  make  us  watch- 
ful against  our  own  spirit,  and  against  the  evil  one, 
especially  when  he  is  transformed  into  an  angel  of 
light,  that  it  may  not  be  in  his  power  to  sift  us. 

In  vain  the  baffled  prince  of  hell, 

His  cursed  project  tries  ; 
We  that  were  doom'd  his  endless  slaves, 

Are  rais'd  above  the  skies. 

Jesus  the  Lord,  shall  guard  me  safe 

From  every  ill  design ; 
And  to  his  heav'nly  kingdom  keep 

This  feeble  soul  of  mine. 

God  is  my  everlasting  aid, 

And  hell  shall  rage  in  vain  I 
To  him  be  highest  glory  paid, 

And  endless  praise.     Amen. 


FEBRUARY  28.  67 

Whose  adorning,  let  it  not  he  that  outward  adorning 
of  plaiting  the  hair,  and  of  wearing  of  gold,  S^c. 
But  let  it  he  the  hidden  man  of  the  heart-,  in  that 
which  is  not  corruptible,  even  the  ornament  of  a 
meek  and  quiet  spirit,  which  is,  in  the  sight  of 
God,  of  great  price.  1  Pet.  iii.  3,  4.  In  rest  shall 
ye  be  saved,  in  quietness  and  confidence  shall  be 
your  strength.  Isa.  xxx.  15. 

A  Christian's  best  accoutrements  and  festival 
clothes,  in  which  he  daily  celebrates  his  sabbath,  is 
called.  Col.  iii.  10,  12,  14,  the  new  man,  bowels  of 
mercies,  kindness,  humbleness  of  mind,  meekness, 
long  suffering  ;  and  above  all,  charity.  These  are 
our  ornaments  we  shall  be  dressed  and  adorned 
with.  What  dost  thon  adorn  most,  body  or  soul  ? 
**  O  thou  meek  and  quiet  lamb  of  God,  justly  I 
blush  before  thee,  when  I  consider  my  impatience, 
though  I  am  never  innocent  like  thee.  I  humbly 
beseech  thee  to  forgive  me  these  my  transgres- 
sions, since  thou  hast  made  sufficient  atonement  for 
all  by  the  meritorious  silence.  But  deliver  me, 
from  this  choleric,  hot,  and  peevish  temper  also  ; 
and  give  me  grace  in  all  inward  and  outward 
troubles,  to  have  that  long-bearing  mind  which  was 
in  thee.  Make  me  daily  more  and  more  like  a 
lamb  ;  that  on  all  occasions,  grievous  or  joyful,  I 
may  be  duly  composed,  and  show  that  excellent, 
heavenly  ornament,  of  a  meek  and  quiet  spirit ;  not 
in  many  words,  but  in  reality  annd  power.  Amen." 

Giver  of  concord.  Prince  of  Peace, 

Meek,  lamb-like  Son  of  God, 
Bid  our  Unruly  passions  cease. 

And  quench  them  with  thy  blood. 


6a  MARCH  I. 

Death  is  swallowed  up  in  victory.  O  deaths  where  h 
thy  sting  ?  O  grave,  where  is  thy  victory  ?  Thank  f 
he  to  God  ivho  giveth  us  the  victory  through' our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ.  1  Cor.  xv.  64 — 57. 

O  gracious  Lord,  I  know  and  receive  thee  as  my 
Redeemer,  and  rely  on  thy  death  in  some  measure  ; 
but  alas !  I  do  not  know  thee  yet  as  I  ought,  and  am 
far  from  being  strong  and  firm  enough,  since  I  am 
frightened  still  at  the  thoughts  of  death.  Grant, 
therefore,  th-at  by  all  thy  providences,  trials,  and 
deliverances,  I  may  be  so  established  in  faith  on 
thy  word,  as  to  prevail  against  all  darkness  and 
fears  ;  that  at  last  I  may  be  enabled  with  humble 
boldness,  to  look  death  in  the  face,  and  really  find  it 
swallowed  up  in  victory  by  thy  meritorious  death. 

O  for  an  overcoming  faith 

To  cheer  my  dying  hoursi 
To  triumph  o'er  the  monster  Death, 

And  all  his  frightfiil  powers. 

Joyful  with  all  the  strength  I  have, 

My  quiv'ring  lips  should  sing, 
«'  Where  is  thy  l^oasted  victory,  grave  ?'* 

'<  And  where  'the  monster's  sting  ?" 

If  sin  be  pardoned,  Vm  secure, 

Death  has  no  sting  beside  ; 
The  law  gives  sin  its  damning  power  ; 

But  Christ,  my  ransom,  died. 

Now  to  the  God  of  victory 

Immortal  thanks  be  paid, 
Who  makes  us  conq'rors  while  we  die* 

Through  Christ,  our  living  head* 


MARCH  2.  69 

Broad  is  the  way  that  leadeth  to  destruction,  and 
many  there  be  which  go  in  thereat:  But,  narrow 
is  tJie  way  which  leadeth  unto  life,  and  few  there 
be  that  find  it.  Matt.  vii.  13,  14. 
This  sounds  too  harsh  in  the  ears  of  the  old  man, 
who  would  not  have  the  law  made  use  of  in  these 
gospel  times,  either  to  the  converted  or  unconvert- 
ed ;  and  yet  to  the  old  man  the  law  of  the  gospel, 
properly  belongs.     St.  Paul,  that  great  preacher  of 
the  gospel,  made  use  of  the  law  to  rouse  converted 
Felix  from  his  security,   (Acts  xxiv.  25.)  and  to 
warn  the  converted  Romans  from  falling  into  it 
again.  Rom.  viii.  13.  For  Christians  are  still  in  the 
flesh,  which  must  be  restrained  by  the  law  ;  the  gos- 
pel is  designed  only  for  the  spirit,  not  for  the  flesh. 
O  Lord,  keep  the  flesh  always  within  due  bounds 
in  the  narrow  way,  that  it  may  never  be  nourished 
by  the  food  of  the  spirit. 

Which  way  dost  thou  walk  ?  examine  thyself.  Is 
it  the  narrow  way  ?  art  thou  quite  sure  of  it  ?  ven- 
ture not  to  go  any  further  at  random.  It  is  matter 
of  great  consequence  ;  if  thou  wilt  be  safe,  try  bet- 
ter for  it,  thou  mayest  easily  be  deceived.  Alas ! 
thou  art  surely  in  the  broad  way  to  destruction,  if 
thou  lovest  and  art  conformed  to  the  world.  Art 
thou  but  indifferent  with  regard  to  the  things  of 
God,  relishing  more  the  vanities,  pleasures,  compa- 
nies, treasures,  and  honours  of  this  world  ?  thou  art 
not  in  the  good  narrow  way  that  leads  unto  life.  O 
consider  this  well,  and  stop  short,  before  it  is  too  late, 
and  thou  drop  into  the  bottomless  pit  of  perdition. 
Straight  is  the  way,  the  door  is  straight, 

That  leads  to  joys  on  high  ; 
'Tis  but  a  few  that  find  the  gate. 
While  crowds  mistake  and  die. 


70  MARCH  3. 

The  desire  of  our  soul  is  to  thy  name  and  to  the 
remembrance  of  thee,  Isa.  xxvi.  8.  My  soul 
followeth  hard  after  thee,  Psal.  Ixiii.  8. 
Cant.  ii.  4. 

Dost  thou  give  thyself  entirely  tp  me,  O  my 
heavenly  bridegroom  :  It  is  but  reasonable  I  should 
grant  thee  thy  desire  also,  and  give  myself  entirely 
up  to  thee  again,  that  each  may  have  a  true  delight 
in  the  other  ;  here  I  offer,  therefore,  all  that  I  have, 
body,  soul,  and  spirit,  with  all  the  faculties  and  sen- 
ses belonging  to  the  same,  do  I  subscribe  myself  for 
ever  to  be  thy  own,  if  thou  wilt  be  pleased  to  ac- 
cept of  this  my  poor  and  little  all. 

Infinite  pity  touch'd  the  heart 

Of  the  eternal  Son, 
Descending  from  the  heavenly  court. 

He  left  his  Father's  throne. 

His  living  power,  and  dying  love, 

Redeem'd  unhappy  men, 
And  rais'd  the  ruins  of  our  race 

To  life  and  God  again. 

To  thee,  dear  Lord,  our  flesh  and  soul. 

We  joyfully  resign  ; 
Bless'd  Jesus  take  us  for  thy  own, 

For  we  are  doubly  thine. 

Thine  honour  shall  for  ever  be 

The  business  of  our  days. 
For  ever  shall  our  thankful  tongues, 

Speak  thy  deserved  praise. 


MARCH  4.  71 

A  man^s  heart  deviseth  his  way ,  but  the  Lord  di- 
rectethhis  steps.  Prov.  xxi.  9.  There  are  ma- 
ny devices  in  a  man's  heart,  nevertheless  the 
counsel  of  the  Lord,  that  shall  stand.  Chap. 
xix.  21. 

Many  pretend  to  have  a  clean  heart,  and  a  good 
will,  whilst  they  harbour  foolish,  and  consequently 
unclean  designs  in  their  bosoms.  It  is  said,  a  good 
man  brings  forth  good  things  out  of  the  good  trea- 
sure of  the  heart,  and  it  is  very  true  ;  but  observe, 
that  it  is  said,  "  out  of  the  good  treasure"  of  the 
heart ;  (which  is  the  new  man)  and  not  simply  out 
of  the  heart,  for  there  also,  still  dwells  the  old  man 
and  evil  treasure  of  sin  and  corruption,  which  free- 
ly spring  up,  like  the  weeds. 

Lord,  send  thy  spirit  down  to  write 

Thy  law  upon  my  heart ! 
Nor  let  my  tongue  indulge  deceit, 

Nor  act  a  liar's  part. 

From  vanity  turn  off  my  eyes, 

Let  no  currupt  design. 
Nor  covetous  desires  arise 

Within  this  soul  of  mine. 

Order  my  footsteps  by  thy  word, 

And  make  my  heart  sincere  ; 
Let  sin  have  no  dominion  Lord, 

But  keep  my  conscience  clear. 

Make  me  to  walk  in  thy  commands  ; 

'Tis  a  delightful  road  ; 
Nor  let  my  head,  or  heart,  or  hands, 

Offend  against  my  God. 


72  MARCH  5, 

The  troubles  of  my  heart  are  enlarged.  O  bring  me 
out  of  my  distresses,  Psal.  xxv.  17.  Divine  an- 
swer. The  sacrifices  of  God  arc  a  broken  spirit ; 
a  broken  and  a  contrite  hearty  O  Gody  thou  wilt  not 
despise.  Psal.  li.  17. 

Some  take  great  pains  to  warn  and  caution  oth- 
ers, exceedingly  against  contrition  and  inward  trou- 
ble of  heart.  But  whoever,  without  having  such  a 
broken  heart,  desires  nothing  but  the  comforts  of 
the  gospel ;  makes  light  of  sin,  and  will  make  a 
dangerous  shipwreck  at  last.  For  in  this  world  we 
have  trouble,  not  only  in  the  beginning,  but  also  in 
the  progress  of  our  Christian  course.  Neither  does 
it  any  harm,  but  it  humbles  deeply,  and  drives  us 
to  Christ,  to  seek  and  find  comfort  in  him  ;  conse- 
quently, godly  sorrow  and  holy  mourning,  are  not 
looked  upon,  and  trusted  to  as  meritorious  works, 
by  no  means.  It  is  only  Christ ;  who  by  his  merits 
has  recovered  us  from  sin  and  wrath,  who  can  be 
rehed  upon.  May  the  Lord  prepare  and  make  us 
evermore  fit ;  duly  to  receive  his  gospel,  that  we 
may  never  trifle  and  make  light  with  this  holy  thing. 

Where  are  the  mourners  (says  the  Lord) 
That  wait  and  tremble  at  my  word  ; 
That  walk  in  darkness  all  the  day  ? 
Come,  make  my  name  your  trust  and  stay. 

The  softest  couch  that  nature  knows 
Can  give  the  conscience  no  repose  : 
Look  to  my  righteousness  and  live  ; 
Comfort  and  peace  are  mine  to  give. 


MARCH  6.  73 

Upon  thy  right  hand  did  stand  the  queen  in  gold  of 
Ophir.  The  king's  daughter  is  all  glorious  withiuy 
her  clothing  is  wrought  gold.  Hearken,  O  daugh- 
ter, andconsider  and  incline  thine  ear.  Forget  all 
thine  own  people,  and  thy  father's  house,  so  shall 
the  king  greatly  desire  thy  beauty ;  for  he  is  thy 
Lord,  and  worship  thou  him.  Psal.  xlv.  lO,  11, 
12,  14. 

Observe,  O  my  soul!   that  thy  celestial   bride- 
groom does  not  require  any  ornament,  merit,  wor- 
thiness,  and  beauty  of  thy  own  :  no,  he  will  wash 
thee  himself  with  his  blood,  he  will  adorn  thee  and 
make  thee  truly  amiable  to  himself,  and  to  his  Fa- 
ther.    O!  sweet  and  eternal  truth!  "He  has  loved 
and  washed  me  also  for  my  sins  in  his  own  blood.'* 
He  has,  and  1  have  in  him,  a  more  than  angelical 
beauty.     O  !  the  unspeakable  fairness  of  this  bride- 
groom and  his  spouse !     Why  should  I  not  cleave 
to  him  alone,  and  love  him  above  all  others  ? 
The  King  of  saints,  how  fair  his  face, 
Adorn'd  with  majesty  and  grace  I 
He  comes  with  blessings  from  above, 
And  wins  the  nations  to  his  love. 
At  his  right  hand  our  eyes  behold 
The  queen  array'd  in  purest  gold  ; 
The  world  admires  her  heavenly  dress, 
Her  robe  of  joy  and  righteousness. 
He  forms  her  beauties  like  his  own, 
He  calls  and  seats  her  near  his  throne  : 
Fair  stranger,  let  thine  heart  forget 
The  idols  of  thy  native  state. 
So  shall  the  King  the  more  rejoice, 
In  thee  the  fav'rite  of  his  choice ; 
Let  him  be  lov'd  and  yet  ador'd, 
For  he's  thy  Maker  and  thy  Lord.  ^ 

7  • 


^4  MARCH  7. 

Th^y  that  are  Chris  fs,  have  crucified  thefiesh 
with  the  lusts  and  affections  thereof.  Gal.  v.  24. 

Luther  on  these  words,  says,  *'  Although  the 
flesh  is  alive  still,  and  frequently  stirs,  yet  it  can- 
not fulfil  its  desires,  because  it  is  fastened  to  the 
cross."  With  the  crucifying  of  the  flesh  we  have 
to  do  as  long  as  we  live.  This  is  the  cross  we  are 
to  take  up  daily,  and  which,  either  prevents  many 
outward  crosses,  or  at  least  yields  great  comfort 
under  it. 

The  cross  being  an  extraordinary  good  means  tb 
experience  the  sweetness  of  the  word  of  God,  O 
my  soul,  thou  must  always  be  ready  and  prepared 
for  it.  And  if  none  comes  from  without,  take  care 
to  break  thy  own  will  in  every  thing.  Painful  and 
hard  as  this  may  seem  to  be  at  first,  yet  will  it  cer- 
tainly very  soon  grow  easier,  and  be  matter  of  real 
joy.  Blessing  and  peace  will  attend  thy  ways  and 
steps,  that  thou  shalt  glorify  God  for  having  been 
resigned  and  guided^  not  by  thy  own,  but  his  good 
will  and  pleasure.  Self-will,  on  the  other  hand, 
creates  nothing  but  vexation,  trouble,  and  uneasi- 
ness. It  is  punished  by  itself,  deprives  us  of  all 
real  blessings,  and  therefore  desferves,  and  is  best 
Co  be  broke  and  crucified  in  its  first  motions^ 


MARCH  8.  7,5 

J%e  thorns y  of  the  care,  the  riches,  and  the  plea-. 
sures  of  life,  sprung  up  with  it,  and  choked 
it.  Luke,  viii.  7.  Therefore  break  up  your 
fallow  ground,  and  sow  not  among  the  thorns. 
Jer.  iv.  3.  Of  good  and  useful  thorns,  see 
Hos.  xi.  6. 

Those  who  hy  the  power  of  Christ,  faithfully 
pluck  up  the  least  thorn  of  sin  without  delay,  can 
happily  avoid  many  great  struggles.  It  is  by 
this  means,  that  the  flesh  is  weakened,  the  spirit 
strengthened,  and  consequently,  the  combat  made 
easier.  But  to  come  off  without  any  struggle  or 
conflict  at  all,  is  impossible,  as  long  as  we  carry 
our  enemy,  the  flesh,  about  us,  which  is  ever  oppo- 
sing all  that  is  good. 

Of  such  thorns  as  prick  the  lustful  flesh,  our  no- 
ble spirit  gathers  the  sweetest  roses  ;  but  those 
gardens  of  roses  which  gratify  the  flesh,  bring  such 
thorns  as  will  certainly  soon  kill  the  spirit.  Choose, 
therefore,  whatever  thou  pleasest,  thorns  must  be 
chosen,  who  either  hurt  the  flesh  or  the  spirit. 
But  I  hope  thou  wilt  be  wise  enough  to  pluck  out 
the  least  thorns  of  sinful  lusts  before  they  are  grown 
up  to  a  whole  hedge;  wl)ich  would  greatly  increase 
thy  trouble  and  pains,  and  make  thee  suflfer,  and 
pay  dear  enough  for  so  short  and  poor  a  pleasure. 


76  MARCH  9. 

And  account  that  the  long  suffering   of  our 
Lord,  is  salvation.  2  Pet.  iii.  15. 

That  even  believers,  considering  their  present 
weak  condition,  may  account  this  long  suffering  of 
the  Lord,  their  salvation,  and  bear  with  others 
also ;  sometimes  the  work  of  renovation  is  not  of  so 
quick  a  growth. 

And  are  we,  wretches,  still  alive  : 

And  do  we  yet  rebel ! 
'Tis  boundless,  'tis  amazing  love, 

That  bears  us  up  from  hell. 

The  burden  of  my  weighty  guilt 

Would  sink  us  down  to  flames, 
And  threat'ning  vengeance  roll  above, 

To  crush  our  feeble  frame. 

Almighty  goodness  cries,  forbear  ! 

And  straight  the  thunder  stays  ; 
And  dare  we  now  provoke  his  wrath, 

And  weary  out  his  grace  ? 

Lord,  we  have  long  abus'd  thy  love. 

Too  long  indulg'd  our  sin, 
Our  aching  hearts  e'en  bleed  to  see 

What  rebels  we  have  been. 

No  more,  ye  lusts,  shall  ye  command, 

No  more  will  we  obey  ; 
Stretch  out,  O  God,  thy  conqu'ring  hand, 

And  drive  thy  foes  away. 


MARCH  10.  77 

It  is  of  the  Lord's  mercies  that  weare  not  consumed, 
because  his  compassions  fail  not.  They  are  new 
every  morning ;  great  is  thy  faithfulness.  For  the 
Lord  will  not  cast  ojffor  ever.  But  though  he  cause 
grief  yet  will  he  have  compassion  according  to  the 
multitude  of  his  mercies :  for  he  does  not  afflict 
willingly-,  nor  grieve  the  children  of  men.  Lament. 
iii.22,31,32,  33.Heb.xii.  11.  IS ow  no  chastening 
for  the  present  seemeth  to  he  joyous,  ^c. 

Though  our  sins  be  forgiven,  chastisenients  may 
be  inflicted  upon  us  nevertheless  ;  but  it  proceeds 
from  affection  and  not  from  anger.  These,  by  our 
Wjsaknesses  are  laid  open  to  us  and  lessened.  For- 
asmuch as  we  feel  our  infirmities,  and  are  desirous 
of  help,  our  hearts  are  empty  vessels  which  Christ 
is  willing  to  fill  up  witlxhis  ^race.  And  though  thy 
wants  were  never  so  great  and  particular,  be  not 
discouraged  ;  but  rather  say,  O  Lord,  here  I  bring 
thee  a  very  large  vessel,  which  to  fill  it  up,  very 
much  grace  and  power  will  be  required  ;  but  thy 
love  and  faithfulness  have  engaged  to  supply  even 
our  greatest  wants. 

Lord,  if  thy  saints  deserve  rebuke. 

Thou  hast  a  gentle  rod  : 
Thy  providences  and  thy  book 

Shall  mako  them  know  their  God. 
Blest  is  the  man  thy  hands  chastise. 

And  to  his  duty-  draw  : 
The  scourges  make  thy  children  wise, 

When  they  forget  thy  law. 

But  God  will  ne'er  cast  off  his  saints, 

Nor  his  own  promise  break  : 
He  pardons  his  inheritance 

For  their  Redeemer's  sake. 

7* 


78  MARCH  11. 

The  love  of  Christ  constraineth  W5,  because  we 
thus  judge  f  that  if  one  died  for  all,  then  were 
all  dead;  and  that  he  died  for  all,  that  they 
who  live  should  not  henceforth  live  unto  them- 
selves, hut  unto  him  who  died  for  them  and 
rose  again,  2  Cor.  v.  14,  15. 

If  the  love  and  power  of  Christ  shall  constrain 
us,  we  must  needs  be  always  meditating  and  re- 
lying on  him  and  his  death.  This  will  cut  off  all 
workings  of  our  own,  and  make  room  for  Christ  to 
work  every  thing  in  us  and  through  us.  O  Lord, 
may  thy  love  on  the  cross,  fire  my  frozen  heart  also, 
that  once  I  may  begin  to  love  and  praise  thee 
purely  and  fervently,  and  to  offer  my  whole  life  up 
to  thee  as  an  entire  sacrifice  of  love. 

Raise  your  triumphant  songs 

To  an  immortal  tune, 
Let  the  wide  earth  resound  the  deeds 

Celestial  grace  has  done. 

Sing  how  eternal  love 

Its  chief  beloved  chose, 
And  bid  him  raise  our  wretched  race 

From  their  abyss  of  woes. 

Now,  sinnerrs,  dry  your  tears, 

Let  hopeless  sorrows  cease  ; 
Bow  to  the  sceptre  of  his  love. 

And  take  the  offer'd  peace. 

Lord,  we  obey  thy  call ; 

We  lay  a  humble  claim 
To  the  salvation  thou  hast  brought, 

And  love  and  praise  thy  name. 


MARCH  12.  79 

But  the  greatest  of  these  is  charity^  Love. 
1  Cor.  xiii.  13.  Therefore  let  all  your  things 
be  done  with  love.  Chap.  xvi.  14.  In  case 
they  shall  be  done  m  God,  who  is  love,  and 
shall  follow  us,  and  be  rewarded  eternally. 
Owe  no  man  any  thing,  hut  to  love  one  an- 
other. Rom.  xiii.  8. 

'  The  debt  of  love  can  never  be  discharged  by 
alms-givings,  or  greater  acts  of  charity.  Having 
done  all  these,  v/e  still  owe  ourselves  and  our  whole 
substance  to  God,  to  offer  it  up  to  his  service  when- 
ever he  should  be  pleased  to  require  it  of  our  hands ; 
for  we  can  call  nothing  our  own.  Whatever  we 
reserve  as  our  own  against  his  will,  is  laid  up  as  a 
great  treasure  of  trouble  and  vexation,  which  gives 
much  more  uneasiness  than  comfort  to  our  minds. 

O  let  thy  love  our  hearts  constrain ! 

Jesus,  the  crucified, 
What  hast  thou  done  our  hearts  to  gain  ? 

Languish'd,  and  groan'd,  and  died. 

Who  then  would  now  refuse  the  way 

Where  Jesus'  footsteps  shine  ? 
Who  would  not  own  the  pleasing  sway 

Of  charity  divine  ? 

Love  is  the  grace  that  keeps  her  power, 

In  all  the  realms  above  ; 
There  faith  and  hope  are  known  no  more, 

But  saints  for  ever  love. 


80  MARCH  13. 

Sin  is  a  reproach  to  any  people.  Prov.  xiv.' 34. 

Be  Hot  deceived,  therefore,  with  false  notions  of 
faith.  Where  there  is  true  faith,  no  sin  has  domin- 
ion. A  man  having  no  feeling  of  the  desperate 
wickedness  of  his  heart,  may  imagine  to  have  faith 
enough  ;  but  being  once  convinced  of  that,  he  soon 
perceives  that  it  is  the  hardest  thing  in  the  world  to 
believe.  It  requires  the  same  power  by  which 
Christ  was  raised  from  the  dead.  St.  Paul  most 
emphatically  describes  it  with  six  remarkable  words. 
Eph.  i.  19,  20.  How  then  can  any  man  think  it  an 
easy  matter  to  believe  ?  O  the  dreadful  blindness 
and  security  which  all  the  world  runs  into  ?  May 
the  Lord  open  their  eyes ! 

Lord,  how  secure  my  conscience  was, 

And  felt  no  inward  dread  ! 
I  was  alive  without  the  law, 

And  thought  my  sins  were  dead. 

My  hopes  of  heaven  were  firm  and  bright, 

But  since  the  precept  came 
With  a  convincing  power  and  light, 

I  find  how  vile  I  am. 

I'm  like  a  helpless  captive  sold, 

Under  the  power  of  sin  : 
I  cannot  do  the  good  I  would. 

Nor  keep  my  conscience  clean. 

My  God,  I  cry  with  every  breath, 

For  some  kind  power  to  save, 
To  break  the  yoke  of  sin  and  death. 

And  thus  redeem  the  slave. 


MARCH  14.  81 

Seeing  we  also  are  compassed  about  with  so  great  a 
cloud  of  witnesses,  let  us  lay  aside  every  weighty 
and  the  sin  which  does  s6  easily  beset  uSf  and  let 
us  run  with  patience  the  race  that  is  set  before  usy 
looking  unto  Jesus,  the  author  arid  finisher  of  our 
faith.  Heb.  xii.  1,2. 

This  sin  is  the  old  man,  and  consequently  does 
not  mean  only  that  which  is  outwardly  in  the  world, 
but  which  we  carry  about  in  our  bosoms.  Accord- 
ing to  St.  Paul,  and  the  whole  tenor  of  the  scrip- 
ture, the  Christian's  warfare  consists  in  putting  off 
the  old,  and  putting  on  the  new  man.  Therefore 
is  it  not  a  strange  thing  for  Christians  still  to  have 
conflicts?  nay,  their  whole  life  is  engaged  therein  ; 
and  he  that  has  no  experience  of  it,  either  is  a  very 
rash  and  ignorant  man,  or  an  indolent  and  slothful 
Christian. 

Blest  are  the  undefil'd  in  heart. 

Whose  ways  are  right  and  clean  ; 
Who  never  from  thy  law  depart. 

But  fly  from  every  sin. 
Blest  are  the  men  that  keep  thy  word, 

And  practice  thy  commands  : 
With  their  whole  heart  they  seek  the  Lord, 

And  serve  thee  with  thnir  hands. 
Great  is  their  peace  who  love  thy  law, 

How  firm  their  souls  abide  ; 
Nor  can  a  bold  temptation  draw 

Their  steady  feet  aside. 
Then  shall  my  heart  have  inward  joy, 

And  keep  my  face  from  shame, 
When  all  thy  statues  I  obey^ 

And  honour  all  thy  name. 


82  MARCH  15. 

The  time  is  short.  1  Cor.  vii.  29.  Therefore, 
redeem  the  time.  Eph.  v.  16.  For  we  have 
here  no  continuing  city,  but  we  seek  one  to 
come.  Heb.  xiii.  14. 

A  Christian  is  only  covetous  of  time,  always  to 
lay  up  something  for  eternity  ;  but  not  greedy  of 
money,  or  given  to  other  lusts.  It  grieves  him  ra- 
ther, when  he  feels  something  of  this  against  his 
will.  He  is  content  to  have  little  of  temporal 
things,  and  even  to  suffer  losses  in  these,  if  he  can 
hut  gain  something  for  the  life  to  come.  This  he 
chiefly  aims  at  in  his  trade  and  conversation,  look- 
ing upon  himself  in  this  world  only  as  a  traveller 
in  an  inn. 

Why  should  this  earth  delight  us  so  ? 

Why  should  we  fix  our  eyes 
On  these  low  grounds  where  sorrows  grow, 

And  every  pleasure  dies  ? 

While  time  his  sharpest  teeth  prepares 

Our  comforts  to  devour, 
There  is  a  land  above  the  stars. 

And  joys  above  his  power. 

There  we  shall  be  dissolved  and  die. 

The  sun  must  end  his  race  ; 
The  earth  and  sea  for  ever  fly 

Before  my  Saviour's  face. 

When  will,  that  glorious  morning  rise  ? 

When  the  last  trumpet  sound, 
And  call  the  nations  to  the  skiea 

From  underneath  the  ground  ? 


MARCH  16.  83 

We  then  that  are  strong,  ought  to  bear  the 
infirmities  of  the  weak,  and  not  to  please 
ourselves,  Rom.  xv.  1.  Considering  thyself 
lest  thou  also  be  tempted.  Gal.  v.  1.  Who 
art  thou  that  judgest  another  rnan^s  servant? 
Rom.  xiv.  4. 

Extraordinary  quickenings  and  strengthenings, 
being  often  followed  by  particular  temptations^  corj- 
flicts  and  sufferings,  require  a  particular  watchful- 
ness, if  we  would  be  earnest  not  to  provoke  the 
Lord  to  visit  us  \yith  sore  punishments,  for  our 
carelessness.  Fear  therefore,  rejoice  with  trem- 
bling, and  secure  thyself  from  falling,  by  temper- 
ing thy  joy  with  true  humility  and  gentleness  to- 
wards the  faults  of  others. 

Be  never  so  high-minded,  O  man !  at  the  miscar- 
riages of  others,  as  to  think  thou  wouldst  not  do  so, 
should  it  happen  to  be  thy  case ;  for  if  God  does 
not  hold  thee  up  himself,  thou  wilt  surely  make 
greater  mistakes.  Therefore  thou  hadst  better  not 
lock  upon  others,  but  upon  thyself;  and  for  fear  of 
falling,  be  continually  watchful  in  prayer.  A  great 
many  would  not  have  fallen  so  deep  had  they  been 
truly  humble  and  more  charitable  in  judging  of  oth- 
ers. He  who  exalteth  himself  above  others,  and 
does  not  bear  with  the  weak,  is  sometimes  humbled 
and  debased  under  the  very  weakest  of  all.  Bear, 
therefore,  since  God  bears  with  thee  ;  and  he  that 
bears  most  with  others  shows  the  greatest  strfength. 


84  MARCH  17. 

Thou  art  my  rock  and  my  fortress ;  therefore  for  thy 
name's  sake  lead  me  and  guide  me.  Psal.  xxxi.  4. 
They  shall  come  with  weeping,  and  with  supplica- 
tions will  Head  thee  :  I  will  cause  them  to  walk  by 
the  rivers  of  waters  in  a  straightway,  tvherein  they 
shall  not  stumble  :  for  I  am  a  father  to  Israel. 
Jer.  xxxi.  9. 

He  that  comes  in  this  manner,  will  certainly  be 
led  of  God.  Na»',  O  Lord,  1  am  blind,  and  heartily 
desire  also  to  be  directed  by  thee  alone  in  all  my 
ways  and  steps,  in  great  and  little  things.  Suffer 
me  never  to  follow  my  own  spirit  and  natural  incli- 
nations, whatever  good  appearance  they  may  have. 
Be  pleased  to  cross  them  continually,  and  give  me 
grace  to  resist  the  least  motions  of  self-will  also 
without  delay,  that  nothing  may  overcome  and 
cause  me  afterwards  an  invincible  or  even  a  sorer 
conflict. 

Thou  art  my  portion,  O  my  God, 

Soon  as  1  know  thy  way. 
My  heart  makes  haste  to  obey  thy  word, 

And  suffers  no  delay. 
If  once  I  wander  from  thy  path, 

I  think  upon  my  ways, 
Then  turn  my  feet  to  thy  commands, 

And  trust  thy  pard'ning  grace. 
Now  I  am  thine,  for  ever  thine, 

O  save  thy  servant  Lord  : 
Thou  art  my  shield,  my  hiding-place, 

My  hope  is  in  thy  word. 
Thou  hast  inclin'd  this  heart  of  mine 

Thy  statutes  to  fulfil ; 
And  thus  till  mortal  life  shall  end, 

Would  I  perform  thy  T^^ill. 


MARCH  18.  85 

Thou  wilt  keep  him  in  perfect  peace,  whose  mind  is 
stayed  on  thee,  because  he  trusteth  in  thee.  Trust 
ye  in  the  Lord  for  ever ;  for  in  the  Lord  Jehovah 
is  everlasting  strength.  Isa.  xxvi.  3,  4.  Let  him 
take  hold  of  my  strength,  that  he  may  make  peace 
with  me,  and  he  shall  make  peace  with  me.  Chap, 
xxvii.  6. 

To  enjoy  an  undisturbed  peace,  great  care  is  to 
be  taken  that  we  do  not  look  and  depend  upon  any 
thing  in  ourselves,  since  all  is  but  imperfect,  and 
ever  will  be  so.  We  are  to  trust  only  in  the  Lamb 
of  God,  which  takes  away  the  sin  of  the  world,  to 
feed  our  souls  continually  in  this  gospel  of  peace, 
and  be  ever  watchful,  faithful,  quiet,  and  humble  ; 
for  we  never  loose  any  thing  of  our  peace,  except 
it  is  stolen  by  some  pride,  or  other  unguarded  af- 
fections. 

Hence  from  my  soul,  sad  thoughts,  begone, 

And  leave  me  to  my  joys  ; 
My  tongue  shall  triumph  in  my  God, 

And  make  a  joyful  noise. 
Darkness  and  doubts  have  veil'd  my  mind, 

And  drown'd  my  head  in  tears, 
Till  sov'reign  grace  with  shining  rays 

Dispeird  my  gloomy  fears. 
Oh,  what  immortal  joys  I  felt, 

And  raptures  all  divine, 
When  Jesus  told  me  I  was  his, 

And  my  beloved  mine. 
In  vain  the  tempter  frights  my  soul. 

And  breaks  my  peace  in  vain  ; 
One  glimpse,  dear  Saviour,  of  thy  face, 

Revives  ray  joys  again. 
8 


86  MARCH  19. 

With  his  stripes  ive  are  healed,  Isa.  liii.  5. 

O  mighty  Saviour,  preserve  me,  the  weakest  of 
all  thy  members,  in  the  invincible  fortress  of  thy 
wounds,  till  I  am  perfectly  whole  and  fitted  to  live 
with  thee  eternally.  It  shall  be  ever  my  favourite 
song  ;  I  am  Christ  and  his  wounds.  I  am  nothing ; 
he  is  my  all.  In  myself  I  am  unclean,  yea,  abom- 
inably filthy  ;  but  in  him,  all  is  covered  and  made 
acceptable  and  lovely  like  himself.  Therefore  his 
cross  is  my  only  glory  and  resting  place. 

Here  at  thy  cross,  my  dying  God, 
1  lay  my  soul  beneath  thy  love, 

Beneath  the  droppings  of  thy  blood, 
Jesus,  nor  shall  it  e'er  remove. 

Should  worlds  conspire  to  drive  me  hence, 
Moveless  and  firm  this  heart  should  lie ; 

Resolv'd,  (for  that's  my  last  defence) 
If  I  must  perish,  there  to  die. 

But  speak,  my  Lord,  and  calm  my  fear, 
Am  I  not  safe  beneath  thy  shade  *? 

Thy  vengeance  will  not  strike  me  here. 
Nor  Satan  dares  my  soul  invade. 

Yes,  I'm  secure  beneath  thy  blood, 

And  all  my  foes  should  loose  their  aim  : 

Hosannah  to  my  dying  God, 

And  my  beet  honours  to  his  name. 


MARCH  20.  87 

Thou  shalt  have  no  inheritance  in  her  land,  nei- 
ther shah  thou  have  any  part  among  them. 
I  am  thy  part  and  thine  inheritance.  Numb, 
xyiii.  20. 

Who  has  and  loves  the  Lord  Jesus,  finds  unspeak- 
ably more  delight,  honour,  and  riches  in  him,  than 
in  ail  other  things.  Then  all  is  willingly  denied 
for  his  sake,  and  this  denial,  springs  from  faith. 
Now,  O  Lord!  thou  art  my  all,  also  ;  and  to  draw 
near  to  thee  is  my  greatest  happiness.  This  shall 
be  my  treasure  and  portion,  that  thou  lovest  me, 
and  I  love  thee  eternally,  and  keep  thy  statutes. 

Lord,  what  a  thoughtless  wretch  was  I 
To  mourn,  and  murmer,  and  repine, 

To  see  the  wicked  plac'd  on  high. 
In  pride  and  robes  of  honour  shine. 

But,  O  their  end,  their  dreadful  end  1 

Thy  sanctuary  taught  me  so  : 
On  slipp'ry  rocks  I  see  them  stand, 

And  fiery  billow.s  roll  below. 

Now  let  them  boast  how  tall  they  rise, 

I'll  never  envy  them  again ; 
There  they  may  stand  with  haughty  eyes, 

Till  they  plunge  deep  in  endless  pain. 

Now  I  esteem  their  mirth  and  wine 
Too  dear  to  purchase  with  my  blood  : 

Lord,  'tis  enough  that  thou  art  mme, 
My  life,  my  portion,  and  my  God. 


88  MARCH  21. 

Make  haste  to  kelp  me,  O  God  of  my  salvation,  Psal. 
xxxviii.  22.  Say  unto  my  soul,  lam  thy  salvation. 
XXXV.  3.  Divine  Answer.  Fear  not,  for  I  am  with 
thee ;  he  not  dismayed,  for  I  am  thy  God :  I  will 
strengthen  thee;  yea-,  I  will  help  thee;  yea,  I  will 
uphold  thee  with  the  right  hand  of  my  righteous- 
ness. For  I  the  Lord  thy  God  ivill  hold  thy  right 
hand,  and  thou  shalt  rejoice  in  the  Lord,  and  shalt 
glory  in  the  holy  one  of  Israel.  Isa.  xli.  10,13,  16. 

This  shows  that  believers  are  not  always  without 
fear,  yet  it  is  much  better  for  theni,  than  presump- 
tion. Many  of  the  primitive  Christians  presented 
themselves  to  martyrdom,  but  shrunk  at  the  trial : 
Others  were  afraid  to  fall  away,  and  yet  went  un- 
dauntedly through  the  torments.  This  was  the 
case  with  many  of  the  Bohemian  brethren,  who  fre- 
quently used  to  say,  "The  tortures  should  be  their 
breakfast,  and  the  faggot-pile  their  dinner  ;  and 
yet  fell  away  also.  And  so.  God  always  punishe^ 
presumption. 

God  shall  preserve  my  soul  from  fear, 

Or  shield  me  when  afraid  : 
Ten  thousaud  angels  must  appear 

If  he  con^mands  their  aid. 

I  cast  my  burdens  on  the  Lord, 

The  Lord  sustains  them  all  ; 
My  courage  rests  upon  his  word, 

That  saints  shall  never  fall. 

My  highest  hopes  shall  not  be  vain, 
My  lips  shall  spread  his  praise  : 

While  cruel  and  deceitful  men, 
Scarce  live  out  half  their  days. 


MARCH  22.  89 

j^uery  mart  that  striveth  for  the  mastery  is  temper- 
Qie  in,  all  things ;  now  they  do  it  to  obtain  a  cor- 
ruptahle  crown^  and  uie  an  incorrnptahle.  1  Cor. 
ix.  25.  For,  He  that  overcometh  shall  inherit  all 
tjf,ings.  Rev.  xxi.  7. 

To  be.  only  an  almost  Christian,  is  a  very  hard 
thing  ;  but  to  be  a  Christian  altogether,  makes  all 
easy  and  pleasant.  And  such  as  desire  to  have  the 
whole  Christ,  his  whole  salvation  and  all  that  is  his, 
must  needs  give  themselves  up  to  him,  not  only  in 
part,  but  wholly  again  according  to  that  fundamen- 
tal and  most  reasonable  rule,  "  All  for  all."  And  as 
far  as  we  deny  him  any  thing,  we  make  ourselves 
unhappy ;  but  the  more  we  are  resigned  to  him, 
the  more  we  are  fit  to  enjoy  him  and  his  spiritual 
blessings. 

Many  would  sooner  be  persuaded  to  followChrist, 
if  it  was  enough  to  serve  him  by  halves,  and  reserve 
some  things  to  themselves.  But  what  could  that 
profit  them  ?  Christ  will  not  be  bargained  with  ; 
and  nothing  more  dangerous  than  the  dividing  our 
hearts  between  him  and  the  world,  or  waiting  from 
time  to  time  for  a  more  convenient  season  to  break 
tjirough.  Thus  you  may  live  many  years,  and  be 
neither  cold  nor  hot ;  and  so  at  last  be  spewed  out 
of  the  Lord's  mouth.  Consider  this  well,  O  ye 
double  minded,  luliewarm  souls!  Christianity  re- 
quires great  striving  and  overcoming  all  things  even 
our  most  favourite  and  darlings  lusts.  Rouse,  there- 
fore, thy  drowsy  heart ;  spare  thyself  no  longer ; 
rise  above  the  trifles  of  this  world  ;  fight  the  good 
fight  of  faith,  and  lay  liold  on  eternal  life,  where- 
\jnto  thou  art  called. 

8* 


90  MARCH  23. 

A  new  commandment  give  I  unto  you,  that  y^ 
love  one  another;  as  I  have  loved  yon,  that 
ye  also  love  one  another,  John,  xiii.  34. 

All  commandments  of  God,  are  commandmentg 
of  love,  tending  to  our  real  good  and  great  happi- 
ness, far  from  being  grievous  to  those  who  have 
faith  and  love  ;  the  practice  therefore  is  life  and 
peace.  The  world  may  think  it  a  grievous  burden  y 
but  this  is  a  great  mistake  indeed.  Sin  is  grievous. 
In  hatred,  envy,  anger,  revenge,  pride,  there  is  no- 
thing but  torment  and  slavery  ;  but  in  love,  there 
is  a  sweet  rest  and  pleasure.  Thus  a  sinner  always 
punishes  himself,  and  is  robbed  of  great  peace  and 
blessings  by  transgressing  the  commandments  of' 
God. 

Saviour,  look  down  with  pitying  eyes, 

Our  jarring  wills  control  : 
Let  cordial,  kind  affection  rise, 

And  harmonize  the  soul. 

Subdue  in  us  the  carnal  mind, 

Its  enmity  destroy  ; 
With  cords  of  love  the  old  adam  bind, 

And  melt  him  into  joy. 

Us  into  closest  union  draw, 

And  in  our  inward  parts 
Let  kindness  sweetly  write  her  law, 

Let  love  command  our  hearts. 


MARCH  24.  9J 

One  thing  is  needful  And  Mary  has  chosen 
that  good  part,  which  shall  never  be  taken 
away  from  her,  Luke  x.  42. 

We  must  not  pretend  to  serve  God  with  only  go- 
ing to  church  and  doing  other  acts  of  outward  de- 
votion ;  whilst  we  are  dead  and  cold,  our  religion 
is  vain,  Who  first  by  faith,  seeks  grace  from  the 
words  of  Christ,  like  Mary,  is  served  by  Christ,  and 
this  constrains  him  to  serve  him  and  his  neighbour 
readily  again.  It  is  almost  impossible  for  such,  to 
go  on  in  haughtiness,  envy,  hatred,  and  disobedi- 
ence. Grace  and  faith  will  resist  it,  and  makes 
them  lowly,  gentle,  willing,  obedient,  active,  with- 
out relying  on  any  works  of  their  own. 

He  that  obtains  Christ,  the  one  thing  needful,  re- 
ceives with  him  all  the  rest,  and  has  no  more  need 
to  be  troubled  about  many  things.  He  being  our  all, 
we  can  always  hve  happy,  whereas  the  children  of 
this  world  must  always  be  cumbered  and  divided  be- 
tween fears  and  hopes  about  their  fate.  In  vanity 
we  shall  never  find  this  good  part ;  neither  is  there 
any  salvation  in  the  works  of  the  law.  Faith  alone 
takes  hold  of  it.  And  whoever  withdraws  his  heart 
and  senses  from  the  noise  and  bustle  of  this  world, 
and  quietly  looks  for  salvation  in  the  wounds  of 
Christ,  the  blessed  fountains  of  blood  and  w;ater, 
will  certainly  find  it  his  better  part. 


92  MARCH  25. 

Purgeme  with  hyssop  and  I  shall  be  clean,  washing 
and  I  shall  he  whiter  than  snow.  Psal.  li.  7.  Hide 
thy  face  from  my  sins,  and  blot  out  all  mine  iniqui- 
ties ;  ver.  2.  Though  your  sins,  be  as  scarlet,  they 
shall  be  as  white  as  snow ;  though  they  be  red  like 
crimson,  they  shall  be  as  wool.  Isa.  i.  18.  I  have- 
blotted  out  as  a  thick  cloud-,  thy  transgressions , 
and  as  a  cloud  thy  sins.  Return  unto  me,  for  I. 
have  redeemed  thee.  Chap.  xliv.  22. 

We  must  not  keep  away  from  Christ  on  account 
of  our  stumbhngs  and  manifold  faults,  if  we  will 
not  come  under  the  law  again  ;  but  by  humbling 
ourselves  directly,  we  are  tp  crave  pardon  in  his 
blood:  By  delaying  this,  our  case  will  be  worse. 
But  the  sooner  it  is  done,  the  sooner  we  shall  be 
forgiven.  The  Lord  not  imputing  those  sins  to  us, 
which  are  sincerely  repented  of,  our  soul  returns  to 
its  rest  again.  And  instead  of  falling  into  carnal 
security  (assome  may  think)  it  will  rather  strength- 
en our  faith  and  make  us  more  confident.  Hasten,' 
therefore,  and  come  as  soon  and  as  well  as  thoo" 
canst.  He  will  receive  thee,  if  thou  couldst  bui^ 
creep. 

O  Lord,  I  fall  before  thy  face 

My  only  refuge  is  thy  grace  ; 

No  bleeding  beast,  nor  flood,  nor  sea 

Can  wash  the  dismal  stain  away. 

Jesus,  my  God,  thy  blood  alone, 
Has  power  sufficient  to  atone  : 
Thy  blood  can  make  me  white  as  snow ; 
No  Jewish  types  could  cleanse  me  so. 


MARCH  26.  93 

Deliver  us  from  evil.  Matt.  vi.  13.  Divine  answer. 
Fear  not  for  I  have  redeemed  thee :  I  have  called 
thee  hy  thy  name,  thou  art  mine.  When  thou  pas- 
sest  through  the  waters,  I  ivill  be  with  thee,  and 
through  the  rivers,  they  shall  not  overflow  thee : 
When  thou  ivulkest  titrovgh  the  fire  thou  shalt  not 
be  burnt ;  jieither  shall  the  flame  kindle  upon  thee. 
Isa.  xliii.  1,  2.  Christ  has,  by  his  owi(i  blood,  once 
entered  into  the  holy  place,  having  obtained  eter- 
nal redemption  for  us.  Heb.  ix.  12. 

This  redemj3tion,  is  the  ground  that  we  are  de- 
livered daily,  and  at  last  shall  be  delivered  from  all 
evil.  Who  loathes  and  detests  not  only  the  evil  of 
punishment,  but  especially  the  evil  of  sin  itself,  and 
so  earnestly  pants  after  the  Redeemer,  has  faith  al- 
ready, and  sin  has  lost  its  dominion.  And  though 
he  may  be  tempted  with  it  severely,  yet  he  is  under 
the  law  no  more ;  for  the  reigning  power  of  sin  be- 
ing broke,  the  law  has  lost  its  condemning  power 
also,  and  we  may  be  sure  of  a  continual,  nay,  eter- 
nal redemption.  We  may  often  feel  the  evil,  but 
j)e  as  often  delivered  from  it  also. 

Thy  solemn  vows  are  on  me,  Lord, 

Thou  shalt  receive  thy  praise  : 
ril  sing,  "  How  faithful  is  thy  word  ; 

"  How  righteous  all  thy  ways." 

Thou  hast  secur'd  my  soul  from  death, 

O  set  thy  pris'ner  free  ! 
That  heart  and  hand,  and  life  and  breath, 

May  be  employ'd  for  thee, 


94  MARCH  27. 

Stir  up  the  gift  of  God  which  is  in  thee,  Tim. 
i.  6.     Psal.  Ixii.  2.     Sam.  vii.  18,  28. 

How  can  this  be  done  ?  Answer.  By  looking  as 
well  upon  thy  own  great  poverty  and  wants,  as 
upon  the  riches  of  grace,  which  is  in  Christ  for  thee, 
and.  so  drawing  near  to  God,  through  him  in  faith. 
But  it  is  not  enough  to  do  this  once  for  all,  or  now 
and  then  only.  It  is  to  be  thy  daily  work.  One 
day's  omission  may  greatly  hurt  thy  soul.  Espe- 
cially the  morning  hours  are  very  proper  for  this 
purpose.  These  must  directly  be  laid  hold  on  to 
converse  with  God  in  prayers,  before  we  meddle 
with'  any  thing  else  in  our  business,  though  ever  so 
needful  and  important,  for  fear  of  being  entangled 
arid  distracted,  perhaps,  the  whole  day.  And  to 
gather  the  more  strength,  draw  as  near  to  Christ  as 
possible,  and  even  wrestle  with  him,  as  if  it  was  the 
last  time.  Pour  out  thy  whole  heart  before  him  ; 
not  giving  over  too  soon  ;  but  be  instant  in  thy  sup- 
plication, at  least  with  continual  inward  groanings, 
till  thy  heart  burns  within  thee,  and  thou  feelest  the 
quickning  influence  of  his  grace  and  Spirit.  Then 
great  care  is  to  be  taken  to  preserve  this  blessing 
and  strength  in  a  quiet  and  well  composed  mind, 
examining  thyself  frequently,  especially  at  nights, 
how  the  day  has  been  spent. 

I'll  lift  my  hands,  I'll  raise  my  voice, 
While  I  have  breath  to  pray  or  praise  ; 

This  work  shall  make  my  heart  rejoice.. 
And  spend  the  remnant  of  my  days. 


MARCH  28.  95 

Vanity  of  vanities,  all  is  vanity.  Eccles.  i.  2. 

Not  only  foolish  doings  in  state  and  trade,  and 
other  filthy  cares  and  pleasures  are  vain-;  but  great 
knowledge  and  sciences  also,  in  which  we  aim  only 
at  our  own  glory  ;  and  even  the  most  specious 
works,  unless  they  are  done  in  Christ  from  the  right 
principle  of  faith  and  love,  fall  under  this  denomi- 
nation. 

Man  has  a  soul  of  vast  desires, 
He  burns  within  with  restless  fires  : 
Toss'd  to  and  fro,  his  passions  fly 
From  vanity  to  vanity. 

In  vain  on  earth  we  hope  to  find 
Some  solid  good  to  fill  the  mind : 
We  try  new  pleasures,  but  we  feel 
The  inward  thirst  and  torment  still. 

So  when  a  raging  fever  burns, 

He  shifts  from  side  to  side  by  turns  ; 

And  'tis  a  poor  relief  to  gain, 

To  change  the  place  but  keep  the  pain. 

Great  God !  subdue  this  vicious  thirst, 
This  love  of  vanity  and  dust : 
Cure  this  wild  fever  of  the  mind, 
And  feed  our  souls  with  joys  refiri'dl 


96  MARCH  29. 

It  is  good  that  a  man  should  both  hope,  and  quietly 
wait  for  the  salvation  of  the  Lord.  It  is  good  that 
he  bear  the  yoke  in  his  youth.  Lam.  iii.  26,  27. 
For  ye  are  dead,  and  your  life  is  hid  with  Christ 
in  God.  When  Christ,  who  is  your  life-,  shall  ap- 
jtear,  then  shall  ye  also  appear  with  him  in  glory. 
Col.  iii.  3,  4.  In  rest  shall  ye  be  saved,  in  quiet' 
ness  shall  be  your  strength.  Isa.  xxx.  15. 

Lord,  I  stand  in  continual  need  of  thy  help  ;  but 
thy  desire  to  help  me  is  greater  than  mine  own. 
For  it  is  said,  ' '  I  will  not  turn  away  from  them,  yea, 
I  will  rejoice  over  them,  to  do  them  good."  Jer, 
xxxii.  40,  41.  O  give  me  but  faith  and  patience 
to  wait  for  thy  help,  which  always  comes  in  the 
best  season. 

I  to  my  God  my  ways  commit, 

And  cheerful  wait  his  will : 
Thy  hand,  which  guides  my  doubtful  feet, 

fchall  my  desires  fulfil. 

Mine  innocence  shalt  thou  display, 
And  make  thy  judgments  known. 

Fair  as  the  light  of  dawning  day, 
And  glorious  as  the  noon. 

The  meek  at  last  the  earth  possess, 

And  are  the  heirs  of  heaven. 
True  riches  with  abundant  peace, 

To  humble  souls  are  given. 


MARCH  30.  97 

The  grace  of  God  that  brings  salvation  has  appeared 
to  all  men,  teaching  us  that  denying  ungodliness 
and  worldly  lusts,  we  should  live  soberly,  towards 
ourselves  ;  righteously  towards  others,  and  godly 
towards  God,  in  this  present  world.  Not  only 
hereafter  in  heaven.     Tit.  ii.   11,  12. 

Some  pretend  to  be  very  evangelical,  and  under 
the  colour  of  avoiding  their  own  workings  and  le- 
gal doings,  fall  into  dangerous  excesses  and  licen- 
tiousness. But  true  evangelical  grace  lays  a  strict 
restraint  on  all  our  sensual  lusts,  and  prevents  us 
from  sliding  out  either  into  the  broad  way  of  the 
world,  or  into  spiritual  pride  ;  real  grace  making 
us  humble,  careful,  and  serious. 

It  is  not  lawful  for  Christians  to  enjoy  the  pleas- 
ures of  the  world.  They  have  nothing  to  do  with 
its  dancings,  plays,  and  other  carnal  sports  and 
jokes.  This  would  dry  up  their  spirit,  and  be  quite 
inconsistent  with  the  cross  of  Christ,  and  the  char- 
acter of  the  militant  church.  Does  not  dancing 
and  gaming  belong  to  the  lust  of  the  world?  Is  not 
this  plainly  forbidden  here?  Can  it  then  be  any 
thing  but  sin  ?  Couldst  thou  pray  and  die  in  such 
a  disposition  ?  Surely  not.  Will  not  the  noise  of 
the  company  follow  thee  into  thy  closet,  and  make 
thee  unfit  for  prayers,  even  a  good  while  after? 
And  what  comfort  dost  thou  hope  to  draw  from 
these  pleasures  in  the  hour  of  death  ? 

Almighty  God,  turn  off  their  eyes 
From  these  alluring  vanities  ; 
And  let  the  thunder  of  thy  word, 
Awake  their  souls  to  fear  the  Lord. 
9 


98  MARCH  31. 

It  is  enough  now,  O  Lord,  talce  away  my  life, 
1  Kings,  xix.  4.  Divine  answer.  Mine  hour 
is  not  yet  come,     John,  xi.  4. 

Here  I  offer  myself,  O  Lord,  to  thy  own  dispo- 
sal, without  exception,  to  work,  to  suffer,  to  live, 
and  to  die,  as  thou  thinkest  fit.  Receive  me  and 
my  household  as  thy  property.  Let  us  be  used 
as  instruments  in  thy  hands,  to  be  employed  where, 
how,  and  to  what  purpose  thou  pleasest.  I  do  not 
desire  to  have  any  power  over  myself;  I  know  it 
would  be  only  to  my  great  disadvantage  and  vex- 
ation, whereas  I  can  be  easy,  and  may  firmly  be- 
lieve, that  all  will  go  well  with  me,  and  I  shall  at 
last  be  saved  eternally,  if  I  am  entirely  surrendered 
to  thee. 

Behold  thy  waiting  servant,  Lotd, 

Devoted  to  thy  fear  ; 
Remember  and  confirm  thy  word, 

For  all  my  hopes  are  there, 

Hast  thou  not  writ  salvation  down, 
And  promis'd  quick'ning  grace  ? 

Doth  not  my  heart  address  thy  throne  1 
And  yet  thy  love  delays. 

Mine  eyes  for  thy  salvation  fail, 

O  bear  thy  servant  up ; 
Nor  let  the  scoflfiing  lips  prevail, 

Who  dare  approach  my  hope. 

Didst  thou  not  raise  my  faith,  O  Lord  ? 

Then  let  thy  truth  appear : 
Saints  shall  rejoice  in  my  reward, 

And  trust  as  well  as  fear. 


APRIL  J.  99 

It  is  finished,     J.ohn,  xix.  30. 

O  Lord,  sufFer  me  never  to  be  lulled  into  a  false 
rest,  till  all  be  finished.  But  grant  that  by  true 
faith  I  may  always  take  up  my  abode  and  resting 
place  in  wounds,  and  most  perfect  work  on  the 
cross ;  since  I  want  nothing  more  than  always  to 
know  myself  justified  in  thee.  In  thee  I  am  per- 
fect already^ 

I'll  sing  my  Saviour's  wondrous  death ; 
*  H6  conquer'd  when  he  fell : 
'Tis  finish'd,  said  his  dying  breath, 
And  shook  the  gates  of  hell. 

'Tis  finish'd,  our  Emanuel  cries, 

The  dreadfiil  work  is  done  : 
Hence  shall  his  sov'reign  throne  arise> 

His  kingdom  is  begun. 

*Twas  for  my  sins,  my  dearest  Lord 

Hung  on  the  cursed  tree. 
And  groan'd  away  a  dying  life 

For  thee,  my  soul,  for  thee. 

His  cross  a  sure  foundation  laid 

For  glory  and  renown, 
When  through  the  regions  of  the  dead 

He  pass'd,  to  reach  the  crown. 


100  APRIL  2. 

Godforbidy  that  I  should  glory,  save  in  the  cross 
of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  by  whom  the  world 
is  crucified  unto  me,  and  I  unto  the  worlds 
Gal.  vi.  4. 

A  true  believer  has  nothing  to  glory  in,  but 
Christ  only.  Even  in  his  very  best  performances 
be  will  be  often  deeply  humbled,  and  cry  out, 
Lord,  enter  not  into  judgment.  And  well  he 
may ;  for  the  ground  of  our  glory,  comfort,  and  sal- 
vation is  not  in  works,  but  in  Christ  and  the  free 
grace  of  God,  who  for  his  Son's  sake,  lays  nothing 
to  our  charge,  but  richly  and  daily  covers  and  par- 
dons all  our  iniquities.  And  thus  we  may  always 
be  preserved  in  true  rest  and  peace  ;  for  the  cross 
of  Christ  is  a  true,  solid,  and  unmoveable  foun-s 
dation.  / 

When  I  survey  the  wondrous  cross 
On  which  the  Prince  of  glory  died, 

My  richest  gain  I  count  but  loss, 

And  pour  contempt  on  all  my  pride. 

Forbid  it,  Lord,  that  I  should  boast. 
Save  in  the  death  of  Christ  my  God  : 

All  the  vain  things  that  charm  me  most, 
I  sacrifice  them  to  his  blood. 

His  dying  crimson,  like  a  robe, 
Spreads  o'er  his  body  on  the  tree : 

Then  am  I  dead  to  all  the  globe, 
And  all  the  globe  is  dead  to  me. 

Were  the  whole  realm  of  nature  mine, 
That  were  a  present  far  too  small : 

Love  so  amazing,  so  divine, 

Demands  my  souU  ixiiy  life,  my  all. 


APRIL  3.  101 

And  they  shall  be  unto  you  cities  of  refuge  (these 
are  the  wounds  of  Christ  ;)yrow  the  avenger. 
Numb.  XXXV.  12.  There  we  have  a  strong  city, 
salvation  will  God  appoint  for  walls  and  bul- 
warks. Isaiah,  xxvi.  1.  Therefore  taJce  heed  of 
coming  without  the  borders  of  this  your  city  of 
refuge. 

What  is  once  done  amiss  cannot  be  altered  any 
more,  neither  can  we,  nor  shall  we  make  satisfac- 
tion for  it  by  particular  degrees  of  grief  and  agonies. 
This  Christ  has  done  already.  Sometimes  we  are 
hindered  to  lay  hold  on  his  atonement  by  subtle 
pride  and  self-righteousness,  and  we  had  better  to 
accuse  ourselves  and  to  confess  our  guilt,  but  at  the 
same  time  to  flee  to  the  wounds  of  Christ,  and  to 
offer  the  ransom  of  his  blood  for  our  trespasses  to 
the  offended  God.  O  Lord,  grant  that  I  may  al- 
ways look  upon  the  debts  of  my  sins  as  actually 
paid  and  forgiven,  and  so  always  fight  and  conquer 
them  by  faith.  • 

Jesus,  the  vision  of  thy  face 

Hath  overpow'ring  charms ! 
Scarce,  shall  I  feel  death's  cold  embrace,. 

If  Christ  be  in  my  arms. 

Then  will  you  hear  my  heart-strings  break, 

How  sweet  my  minutes  roll ! 
A  mortal  paleness  on  my  cheek; 

And  glory  in  my  soul.  ' 

9* 


102  APRIL  4. 

He  shall  cause  them  that  come  of  Jacob  to  take  rooty 
Israel  shall  blossom  and  bud,  and  fill  the  face  of  the 
world  with  fruit,  Isaiah,  xxvi.  6.  They  shall  again 
take  root  downward  and  bear  fruit  upward.  Chap^ 
xxxvii.  3 1 .  TAey  shall  bring  forth  fruit  in  old  age ; 
they  shall  be  fat  and  flourishing.  Psal.  xcii.  14,  16. 
Her  leaf  shall  be  green,  and  shall  not  be  careful  iii 
the  year  of  drought,  neither  shall  cease  from  yield- 
ing fruit.  Jer.  xvii.  8. 

True  evanganical  Christians  look  upon  them- 
selves as  the  most  barren  trees,  ever  crying  out,  O 
pny  leanness  !  my  leanness  !  Even  before  the  judgr 
ment-seat  of  Christ,  they  know  no  fruits.  Matt. 
XXV.  37,38,  39.  The  reason  is,  they  are  poor  in 
spirit,  and  are  not  pleased  with  their  fruits,  but 
only  with  Christ.  O  Lord,  grant  that  I  may  de- 
sire not  only  earnestly,  but  singly  also,  to  bring, 
forth  more  fruits,  that  I  may  grow  in  fruitfulness 
^s  I  grow  in  years ;  sq  as  to  be  ever  green,  and 
never  ceasing  from  yielding  fruits  in  my  old  age, 
fruits  which  may  last  to  all  eternity. 

Lord  'tis  a  pleasant  thing  to  stand 
In  grandens  planted  by  thine  hand  : 
Let  me  within  thy  courts  be  seen, 
Like  a  young  cedar  fresh  and  green. 

There  grow  thy  saints  in  faith  and  love, 
Blest  with  thy  influence  from  above :  , 
Time,  that  does  all  things  else  impair. 
Still  makes  them  flourish  strong  and  fair. 

Laden  with  fruits  of  age,  they  show 
The  Lord  is  holy,  just,  and  true : 
None  that  attend  his  gates  shall  find 
A  God  unfaithful  or  unkind. 


APRIL  5.  103 

The  breaker  is  come  up  before  them ;  theyha^ebroke 
up  and  have  passed  through  the  gate,  and  their 
king  (as  the  author  and  finisher  of  faith)  shall 
jpass  before  them,  and  the  Lord  on  the  head  of 
them.  Micah.  ii.  13.  Be  of  good  cheer,  I  have 
overcome  the  world.  John,  xvi.  33.  Heb.  xii.  1,2. 

Sometimes  the  enemy  seems  to  get  an  advantage 
over  us,  but  the  battle  is  not  over  yet.  At  last  thou 
shalt  have  the  victory,  and  carry  the  day  for  all  that. 
In  hard  struggles  remember  the  power  of  Christ, 
who  in  his  resurrection  broke  through  every  thing. 
With  Mm  thou  canst  also  break  through,  and  be 
more  than  conquerer.  Yea,  in  every  conflict  thou 
canst  be  sure  of  the  victory  before  landed  ;  for  his 
victory  is  thy  victory  also.  It  as  impossible  for 
thine  enemies  to  keep  thee  always  in  bonds  and  sub- 
jection, as  it  was  that  Christ  could  be  kept  in  the 
grave,  by  the  stone,  seal,  and  keepers.  Nay,  the 
greater  their  force  is,  the  more  glorious  the  farce 
is,  and  the  more  glorious  will  be  the  victory, 

Hosanna  to  our  conqu'ring  King! 

The  prince  of  darkness  flies, 
His  troops  rush  headlong  down  to  hell, 

Like  light'ning  from  the  skies. 

There,  bound  in  chains,  the  lions  roar, 

And  fright  the  rescu'd  sheep  ; 
But  heavy  bars  confine  their  power 

And  mahce  to  the  deep. 

Hosanna  to  the  conqu'ring  king! 

All  hail  incarnate  Love ! 
Ten  thousand  sons  and  glories  wait 

To  crown  the  hand  above. 


104  APRIL  6. 

But  unto  you  that  fear  my  name,  shall  the  sun  of 
'righteousness  arise  with  healing  in  his  wings,  and 
he  shall  go  forth-,  and  grow  up  as  the  caltes  of  the 
stall.  Mai.  iv.  2.  If  thou  wouldst  believe,  thou 
shouldst  see  the  glory  of  God.  John,  xi.  4Q. 
Against  hope  we  believe  in  hope.  Rom.  iv.  18. 

He  that  pretends  to  see  and  comprehend  every 
thing  before  hand,  with  his  own  natural  reason, 
shuts  his  6yes  against  the  sun  of  righteousness,  and 
can  never  learn  to  see 'rightly  by  faith.  This  is 
downright  unbelief  f  and  unbelief  is  the  source  of 
all  sins,  though  it  is  hardly  believed.  Hundreds  be- 
ing asked,  whether  they  are  in  faith,  they  will  all  an- 
swer in  the  affirmative,  though  thereis  not  so  much 
as  the  least  beginning  of  it;  since  they  are  without 
the  necessary  hunger  and  thirst  after  righteousness  : 
they  want  that  broken  heart  to  which  the  Lord  has 
^vdn  the  promise  of  faith  alone;  neither  have  they 
eVfer  prayed  Ibr  it  earnestly  :  whereas,  Luther,  and' 
ail  t»ther'  faithful  witnesses,  say,  '*  we  must  needs 
first  ardently  jyray  to  God  for  faith,  else  we  shall  be 
faithless  to  all  eternity."  But  this  done,  we  may 
say,  Lord,  I  have  long  prayed,  and  am  still  praying 
for  faith,  consequently  I  am  in  the  same. 

Our  guilty  souls  are  drown'd  in  tears 
'Till  Christ's  atoning  blood  apj^ears  ;' 
Then  we  awake  from  deep  distress, 
Anxl  sino  the  Lord  our  righteousness. 

Our  very  frame  is  mix'd  with  sin, 
His  spirit  makes  our  natures  clean  : 
Such  virtues  froni  his  suff'rings  flow, 
At  once  to  cleanse  and  pardon  too. 


APRIL  7.  \0b 

Jjet  your  moderation  he  known  unto  all  men. 
Phil.  iv.  5.  For  Charity,  that  is  love,  edifi- 
eth,  1  Cor.  viii.  1. 

If  thou  rebukest  others,  and  wouldst  have  them 
to  be  Hke  thee,  thou  oughtest  to  examine  thyself 
first,  whether  it  flows  from  a  blind  party-zeal,  im- 
patience and  self  will,  or  from  a  true'  principle  of 
love ;  and  \Yhether  thou  art  also  much  in  prayers 
for  them,  both  before  and  after.  Who  lays  the 
Jong-sufferings  of  God  truly  to  heart,  and  considers 
how  gently  he  has  treated  him,  and  still  treats  him, 
like  the  weakest  child,  must  needs  be  moderate  also 
towards  all  men,  and  think,  "  if  nobody  would  bear 
with  others,  sqrely  I  must:"  he  must  always  pray, 
*.'  Lord  !  give  me  the  right  spirit  of  meekness,  tot 
show  all  leriity  to  my  fellow-christians." 

Watch  o'er  my  lips,  and  guard  them,  Lord} 
From  ev'ry  rash  and  heedless  word ! 
Ner  let  my  feet  incline  'to  tread 
The  guilty  path  where  simiers  lead. 

O  may  the  righteous,  when  I  stray, 
Smite  and  reprove  my  wand'ring  way  ! 
Their  gentle  words,  like  ointment  shed, 
Shall  never  bruise,  but  cheer  my  head. 

When  I  behold  them  prest  with  grief, 
rU  cry  to  heav'n  for  their  relief ; 
And  by  my  warm  petitions  prove 
IJow  much  I  prize  their  faithful  lore. 


106  APRIL  8. 

Put  thou  my  tears  into  thy  bottles ;  are  they  not  in 
■  thy  hook ?.'  Psal.  vi.  9.  Divine  Answer.  They  that 
sow  in  tears ^  shall  reap  in  joy.  He  .that  goes 
forth  and  weeps ^  bearing  precious  seed,  shall 
doubtless  come  again  with  rejoicing-,  bringing  his 
sheaves  with  him.  Psal.  cxxvi.  5,  6. 

If  thou  canst  reap,  yet  sing  the  hymns  of  joy 
and  triumph,  remember  that  this  belongs  more  to 
\he  future  than  to  this  present  world.  Hefe  sor- 
row and  faith  can  be  united.  Thine  enemies  have 
not  left  and  given  thee  over  yet.  There  is  no  re- 
treat from  the  field  of  battle,  before  the  hour  of 
death.  Let  this  be  a  cheer  to  thine  impatient 
heart.  But  must  thou  be  humbled  under  the  sense 
of  thy  misery,  so  as  to  fight,  groan,  aud  weep  very 
often ;  consider  that  this  is  the  very  seed  for  eter- 
nity. Not  a  single  tear  and  groan  will  be  lost.  They 
are  all  in  the  book  of  the  Lord. 

God  counts  the  sorrows  of  his  saints, 

Their  groans  affect  his  ears  ; 
He  has  a  book  for  their  coniplaints, 

A  bottle  for  their  tears. 

The  Lord  can  clear  the  darkest  skies, 

Can  give  us  day  for  ni^ht, 
Make  drops  of  sacred  sorrow  rise 

To  rivers  of  delight. 

Let  those  that  sow  in  sadness  wait 

"Till  the  fair  harvest  come  ; 
They  shall  confess  their  sheaves  are  great. 

And  shout  the  blessings  home. 


APRIL  9.  107 

Flee  from  sin  f  as  thou  toouldst  flee  from  a  serpent; 
for  if  thou  comest  near  it,  it  will  sting  thee. 
Eccles.  xxi.  2,  3.  Narrow  is  the  way  that  lead- 
etkunto  life.  Matt.  vii.  14.  Therefore,  follow 
holiness,  in  this  way,  without  which  no  man  shall 
see  the  Lord.  Heb.  xii  14. 

This  advice  properly  belongs  to  staints  and  true 
believers ;  for  even  these  have  need  still  to  be 
warned  against  sin  and  stirred  up  to  more  holiness. 
How  dangerous  then  must  be  the  condition,  and 
what  will  become  of  those,  who  have  not  followed 
holiness  at  ail,  but  followed  only  the  love  of  money, 
pleasures,  and  honours,  and  made  a  mock  of  tjoli- 
ness.  These  go  the  broad  way  indeed,  whatever 
moral  honesty  they  may  seem  to  have  ;  for  it  is  a 
true  saying  "  either  a  saint  or  a  beast,"  and  conse- 
quently a  brand  of  hell. 

Ye  sons  of  ADAM,  vain  and  young,    ... 

Indulge  your  eyes,  indulge  your  tongue, 

Taste  the  delights  your  souls  desire. 

And  give  a  loose  to  all  your  6re. 

Pursue  the  pleasure  you  design, .,    .  ^ 

And  cheer  your  hearts  with  songs  and  wine, 

Enjoy  the  day  of  mirth,  but  know 

There  is  a  day  of  jud-gftient  too. 

God  from  dn  hig'h  beholds  your  thoughts. 

His  book  records  your  secret  faults, 

The  works  of  darkness  you  have  done 

Must  all  appear  before  the  sun. 

The  vengeance  of  your  follies  due   .r  •      ;    .j., 

Should  strike  your  hearts  with  terror  through, 

How  will  you  stand  before  bis  face, 

Or  answer  for  his  injur'd  grace  ? 


log  APRIL  10; 

Lead  us  not  into  temptation.  Matt.  vi.  13.  Diving 
answer.  God  is  faithful,  who  will  not  suffer  yoU 
to  he  tempted  above  what  ye  are  able,  but  will  with 
the  temptation  also  make  a  way  to  escape  ^  that  ye 
may  be  able  to  bear  it.  1  Cor.  x.  13.  Psal.  Ixvii. 
i.  Compared  with  the  beautiful  words,  Eccls. 
i.  13* 

The  nearer  to  heaven,  the  higher  the  mountains^ 
the  deeper  the  vallies,  and  the  sharper  the  conflicts* 
But  be  npt  discouraged !  itjs  only  for  the  trial  of 
faith.  God  gives  also  more  strength,  carrieth  us 
through  all,  as  he  has  done  from  the  beginning,  and 
suffers  none  to  be  ashamed  who  trust  in  him.  Some- 
limes  we  may  seem  to  be  tempted  above  measure, 
and  are  afraid  of  being  confounded  ;  but  far  froni 
it,  it  is  quite  impossible  we  should.  Here  thoii 
hast  the  plain  words  of  the  Lord.  Take  hold  on 
them,  and  wait  his  time  ;  for  since  tlie  world  stands^ 
no  one  has  been  confounded  in  any  thing  who  has 
waited  for  his  promise  ;  and  surely  he  will  not 
make  thee  the  first  instance  of  the  failure  of  his 
word  ;  by  no  means.  Phil.  i.  10.  ha.  liv.  10. 
Rather  should  the  mountains  depart,  and  the  hills 
be  removed,  says  the  Lord,  that  hath  mercy  on  thee* 

Our  God,  how  firm  his  promise  stands, 

Even  when  he  hides  his  face  ! 
He  trusts  in  our  Redeemer's  hands 

His  glory  and  his  grace. 

Then  why,  my  soul,  these  sad  coraplaints. 

Since  Christ  and  we  are  one  ? 
Thy  God  is  faithful  to  his  saints, 

!•  faithful  to  hii  Son. 


APRIL  11.  109 

O  satisfy  us  early  with  thy  mercy .  Psal.  xc.  14. 

God's  answer.  Open  thy  mouth  wide,  and  Iwilljill 

i7.  Psal.   Ixxxi.  10.  For,  my  people  shall  be  satis- 
Jied  with  my  goodness.  Jer.  xxxi.  14.  The  river  of 

God  is  full  ofivater,  Psal.  Ixv.  9.  With  joy  shall 

we  draw  water  out  of  the  wells  of  salvation.   Isa. 

xii.  13.  This  is  the  fountain  opened  for  sin  and 

uncleanness.  Zech.  xlii. 

O,  soul !  keep  close  to  the  gospel ;  there  is  the  ful- 
ness here  spoken  of;  food  and  raiment,  and  every 
thing  in  plenty.  Let  not  the  law  hinder  thee  from 
eating,  drinking,  rejoicing,  and  adorning  thyself. 
Isa.  Iv.  1,  2,  10-12.  The  law  as  one  justly  observes, 
brings  in  a  great  bill,  but  nothing  wherewith  to  dis- 
charge it.  It  sets  the  soul  a  working,  but  so  as  to  ne- 
glect the  proper  nourishments  necessary  for  it.  No 
wonder,  therefore,  that  she  is  destitute  of  sufficient 
strength,  that  she  faints  and  comes  never  to  the  right 
mark.  There  is  no  such  thing  as  nniaking  amends  by 
the  law  ;  we  must  go  directly  to  Christ,  and  receive 
first  the  strength  and  grace  required,  out  of  his  ful- 
ness, by  faith. 

Let  every  mortal  ear  attend, 

And  every  heart  rejoice, 
The  trumpet  of  the  gospel  sounds 

With  an  inviting  voice. 
Rivers  of  love  and  mercy  here 

In  a  rich  ocean  join  ; 
Salvation  in  adundance  flows, 

Like  floods  of  milk  and  wine. 
The  happy  gates  of  Gospel  grace 

Stand  open  night  and  day  ; 
Lord,  we  are  come  to  seek  supphes, 

And  drive  our  wants  away. 
10 


110  APRIL  12. 

Fear  noU  daughter  of  Zion.  John,  xii.  15.  But  re- 
joice greatly  and  shout-,  O  daughter  of  Jerusalem^ 
Behold  thy  king  comes  unto  thee ;  he  is  just  and 
having  salvation.  Zech.  ix.  9.  For  the  Lord  has 
taken  away  thy  judgments ^  he  has  cast  out  thine 
enemy;  the  king  of  Israel,  even  the  Lord,  is  in 
th£  midst  of  thee ;  thou  shalt  not  see  evil  any  more. 
Zeph.  iii.  16.  Behold  they  shall  surely  gath£r  to- 
gether hit  not  by  me.  Whosoever  shall  gather  to- 
gether against  thee,  shall  fall  for  thy  sake.  Isa. 
liv.  16.  Let  them  return  unto  thee,  but  return  not 
thou  unto  them.  Jer.  xv.  19. 

How  strong  soever  thine  inward  enemies,  thy 
corruptions,  may  be  now,  fear  not  and  be  not  dis- 
couraged. So  much  the  more,  saith  faith,  thy  king 
is  bound  by  his  office,  love,  and  promise,  to  help' 
and  assist  thee  with  strength  to  overcome :  and 
thus,  as  the  ancients  said,  shall  even  the  hardships 
of  a  Christian,  under  his  corruptions,  be  rewarded 
with  a  crown.  O  Lord,  grant  that  I  may  be  always 
faithful  and  resolute  enough  not  to  spend  needlessly 
too  much  time  in  one  conflict,  but  directly  putting 
on  the  armour  of  faith,  I  may  soon  conquer,  press 
forward,  and  experience  thee  every  hour,  as  a 
mighty  King  and  Saviour. 

My  Lord,  my  conqu'ror,  and  my  king, 

Thy  sceptre  and  thy  sword  I  sing  ; 
Thine  is  the  vict'ry,  and  I  sit, 

A  joyful  subject  at  thy  feet. 
Great  Prophet,  let  me  bless  thy  name ; 

By  thee  the  joyful  tidings  came, 
Of  wrath  appeas'd,  or  sins  forgiven. 

Of  hell  subdued,  and  peace  with  heaven. 


APRIL  13.  Ill 

Thou  shaltnot  he  afraid  of  them,  hut  shall  well 
remember  what  the  Lord  thy  God  did  unto 
Pharaoh,  and  unto  all  Egypt,  Deut.  vii.  18. 
Be  ye  not  terrified  because  of  them,  for  the 
Lord  your  God  is  he  that  goes  with  you,  to 
Jig  ht for  you  against  your  enemies,  to  save  you. 
Chap.  XX.  3,  4.  Hitherto  shalt  thou  come,  and 
no  farther,  and  here  shall  thy  proud  waves  be 
stayed.  Job,  xxxviii.  11. 

The  assaults  of  original  sin  will  ever  return,  and 
we  must  not  be  suprised,  when  one  conflict  is  over, 
that  another  arises.  This  contest  is  unavoidable, 
for  the  enemy  is  within  us.  It  makes  us  more  care- 
ful and  humble  to  know  this,  than  if  we  believe 
that  we  had  only  to  encounter  with  sin  from  with- 
out and  not  from  within ;  and  if  we  desire  to  feel 
less  evil  in  us  than  God  suffers  us  to  have,  we  may 
look  to  it,  whether  it  proceeds  not  sometimes  from 
pride  and  impatience,  that  we  wished  to  get  rid  of 
the  trouble  of  striving  always  against  sin ;  where- 
as it  should  be  enough  for  us,  that  God  suffers  it, 
lays  it  not  U>  our  charge,  and  carries  us  through  all 
dangers.       * 

Let  the  redeemed  of  the  Lord. 
The  wonders  of  his  grace  record ; 
Israel,  the  nation  whom  he  chose, 
And  rescued  from  their  mighty  foes. 

He  feeds  and  clothes  us  all  the  way  ; 
He  guides  our  footsteps  lest  we  stray  ; 
He  guards  us  with  a  powerful  hand, 
And  brings  us  to  the  heavenly  land. 


112  APRIL  14. 

Verily  thou  art  a  God  that  hidest  thyself,  O  God  of 
Israel,  the  Saviour!  Isa.  xlv.  15.  Ail  the  paths  of 
the  Lord  are  mercy  and  truth.  Psal.  xxv.  10.  The 
Lord  of  hosts  is  iconderful  in  counsel  and  excellent 
in  working.  Isa.  xxviii.  29. 

G©d  is  wonderful  in  all  his  doings,  his  ways  are 
past  finding  out,  at  the  end  we  can  see  best  what 
wise  and  gracious  steps  he  took  with  us.  There- 
fore, when  things  take  such  a  wonderful  turn  that 
we  are  quite  at  our  wits  end,  and  do  not  know 
which  way  to  go,  we  piay  beheve  the  hand  of  the 
Lord  IS  in  it,  and  some  good  will  come  of  it  at  last. 
As  we  experience  the  name  of  Christ  to  be  won- 
derful at  such  times,  we  may  well  expect  that  he 
will  show  himself  to  be  our  counsellor,  and  a  migh- 
ty God  also.  At  first  every  thing  may  seem  to  be 
against  us  and  quite  contrary ;  but  at  last  we  see 
plainly,  that  it  was  highly  and  needful  it  should  go 
contrary  to  our  corrupt  nature,  ^and  that  thus  it 
went  well.  For  though  the  ways  of  God  are  mar- 
vellous, yet  they  are  glorious. 

Lord  v/e  adore  thy  vast  designs, 

The  obscure  abyss  of  providence, 
Too  deep  to  sound  with  mortal  lines, 

Too  dark  to  view  with  feeble  sense. 
Now  thou  array'st  thine  awful  face 
In  angry  frowns  without  a  smile  : 
We  through  the  cloud  believe  thy  grace, 

Secure  of  thy  compassion  still. 
Dear  Father,  if  thy  lifted  rod 

Resolve  to  scourge  us  here  below, 
Still  we  must  lean  Upon  our  God, 

Thine  arm  shall  bear  us  safely  through. 


APRIL  15.  113 

Verily  he  hath  home  our  griefs  and  carried  our  sor- 
rows ;  yet  we  did  esteem  him  stricken-,  smitten  of 
God,  and  afflicted :  but  he  was  wounded  for  our 
transgressions,  he  was  bruised  for  our  iniquities ; 
the  chastisement  of  our  peace  was  laid  upon  him, 
(as  upon  the  Lamb  of  God  that  takes  away  the 
sins  of  the  world,)  and  with  his  stripes  we  are 
healed.  Isa.  liii.  4,  5.   Thus  Christ  our  passover 
is  sacrificed  for  us.  1  Cor.  v.  7. 
Under  a  continual  sense  of  our  misery,  we  must 
have    our   eyes  of  faith  immoveably   fixed  upon 
Christ  the  Lamb  of  God,  and  believe  ourselves  to 
be  ever  justified  and  healed  by  his  stripes  ;  contin- 
ually saying,  this  sin  and  this  punishment  is  also 
taken  away.     In  Christ,  I  am  without  sin,  and  need 
not  fear  the  least  condemnation  at  all.     This  keeps 
us  in  peace.     O  Lord  help  us,  for  as  yet  we  are  but 
weak  babes. 

How  condescending  and  how  kind 

Was  God's  eternal  son ; 
Our  misery  reach'd  his  heavenly  mind, 

And  pity  brought  him  down. 
When  justice,  by  our  sins  provoked, 

Drew  forth  its  dreadful  sword, 
He  gave  his  soul  up  to  the  stroke. 

Without  a  murm'ring  word. 
Now  we  receive  repeated  seals 

Of  Jesus'  dying  love  : 
Hard  is  the  wretch  that  never  feels 

One  soft  affection  move. 
Oh,  let  our  hearts  begin  to  melt. 

While  we  his  death  record. 
And,  with  our  joy  for  pardon'd  guilt, 
Mourn  that  we  pierc'd  the  Lord. 
10* 


APRIL  1^. 

Hemember  me,  O  my  God,  for  good.  Neh.  xiii.  31. 
Divine  answer.  Is  Ephraim  my  dear  son?  is 
he  a  pleasant  child  ?  For  since  1  spake  against 
him,  I  do  earnestly  remember  hhn  still;  therefore 
m^y  bowels  are  troubled  for  him;  I  will  surely 
have  mercy  uponhim.  Jer.  xxxi.  2  1.  j4  book  of  re- 
membrance was  written  before  him,  for  them  that 
feared  the  Lord,  and  that  thought  vpon  his  name. 
Mai.  iii.  16,  17,  18.  I  know  the  thoughts  which  I 
have  toward  you.  Jer.  xxix-  1 J . 

As  soon  as  I  appear  with  my  prayers  before  the 
Lord,  he  writes  all  my  petitions  upon  his  book  of 
remembrance.  Should  1  not  pray  much  ?  Yes,  O 
Lord,  and  though  I  have  many  things  already  upon 
thy  book,  yet  I  will  give  thee  occasion  to  write 
down  more  and  more  every  hour.  Thus  nothing 
can  be  forgotten.  All  will  be  granted  by  him.  De- 
lays we  must  expect,  but  all  shall  be  made  up 
with  so  much  larger  gifts,  in  due  time,  though  the 
best  will  be  reserved  for  a  blissful  eternity. 

Now  let  the  Lord  my  Saviour  smile, 
And  show  my  name  upon  his  heart ; 

I  Avould  forget  my  pains  awhile. 
And  in  the  pleasure  lose  the  smart. 

My  name  is  printed  on  his  breast ; 

His  book  of  life  contains  my  name  : 
I'd  rather  have  it  there  impress'd, 

Than  in  the  bright  records  of  fame. 

When  the  vast  fire  burns  all  things  here> 
Those  letters  shall  securely  stand, 

And  in  the  Lamb's  book  fair  appear. 
Writ  by  the  eternal  Father's  hand. 


APRIL  17.  115 

O  remember  not  against  us  former  iniquities.  Psal. 
Ixxix.  8.  The  sins  of  our  youth  :  Thus  sins  long 
forgiven,  may  revive  again  in  the  heart.  Forgive 
us  our  trespasses  as  ive forgive  thevi  that  trespass 
against  us.  Matt.  vi.  10.  Divine  answer.  None 
of  his  sins  which  he  has  committed  shall  be  men- 
tioned unto  him.  Ezek  xxxiii  16.  Who  is  a  God 
like  unto  thee,  that  pardoneth  iniquity  and  passes 
by  the  transgression  of  ihe  remnant  of  his  heri- 
tage ?  He  retaineth  not  his  anger  for  ever,  be- 
cause he  delights  in  mercy  :  He  will  have  com- 
passion upon  us  ;  He  will  subdue  our  iniquities-, 
and  thou  will  cast  all  their  sins  into  the  depths  of 
the  sea.  Micah.  vii.  18,  19. 

The  weakest  Christian  who  is  full  of  fears  and 
doubts,  by  sincerely  praying  the  fifth  petition  of  the 
Lord's  prayer,  may  be  convinced  that  his  sins  are 
actually  pardoned  ;  for  both  the  forgiveness  and  the 
full  assurance  of  it  are  comprehended  in  the  same  ; 
and  since  he  prays  according  to  the  will  of  God,  and 
forgives  them  that  trespass  against  him,  it  shows  that 
the  work  ofsanctification  is  begun  in  his  heart  also  ; 
and  though  at  present  it  be  but  very  weak  and  im- 
perfect, yet  it  evidences  his  faith  ;  and  the  Lord  has 
often  used  this  evidence  and  still  may  use  it,  to  con- 
vince souls,  for  the  first  time,  to  be  actually  in  faith 
and  a  state  of  grace.  Who  can  hinder  him  from  do- 
ing this,  or  even  prove  the  contrary  of  it  ?  for  this  is 
not  making  sanctification  the  foundation  of  the  for- 
giveness of  sin  ;  but  Christ  is,  and  ever  will  be  the 
foundation  of  it,  and  a  great  difference  there  is  be- 
tween grounding  myself  upon  something,  and  be- 
tween trying  my  faith  in  a  state  of  darkness  and  un- 
certainty, by  such  marks  as  the  Lord  himself  has 
appointed. 


116  APRIL  18. 

Remember  from  whence  thou  art  fallen.  Rev.  i.  5. 

When  we  have  stumbled,  it  chiefly  proceeded 
from  unbelief,  therefore  instead  of  disputing  long 
with  ourselves,  we  must  stir  up  our  hearts  so  much 
more  to  faith  ;  and  before  we  go  on,  seek  first  with 
a  humble  sense  of  our  guilt  and  weakness,  new 
pardon  and  strength  in  Christ ;  and  afterwards 
keep  close  and  steadfastly  to  him  also  by  faith,  like  a 
weak  child,  to  draw  from  him  alone  all  necessary 
virtues  evermore.  Thus  we  shall  be  preserved  by 
him  from  faUing  again. 

O  could  we  call  to  mind  the  grace, 

The  glorious  grace  from  which  we  fell ; 

Live  o'er  again  the  ancient  days, 

And  do  the  works  thou  lov'st  so  well ! 

O  that  we  might  through  thee  repent, 
And  timely  turn  to  thee  and  live  ! 

So  should  thy  grace  our  doom  prevent, 
Thou  wouldst  abundantly  forgive. 

Before  thou  dost  in  vengeance  come, 
Our  candlestick  far  off  remove, 

And  fix  the  unalterable  doom  ; 
O  let  us  weep,  believe,  and  love. 

Call  on  us,  by  thy  spirit  call, 
Yet  once  again  our  church  restore, 

Show  us  thy  grace  is  over  all. 
And  lift  us  up  to  fall  no  more. 


APRIL  19.  117 

Escape  for  thy  life,  and  hole  not  behind  thee. 
Gen.  xix.  17.  Be  thou  faithful  unto  death,  and 
I  will  give  thee  a  crown  of  life.  Rev.  ii.  10. 

When  there  is  a  fire,  people  in  general  run  to 
extinguish  it  and  to  save  what  they  can  :  O  that 
we  would  all  run  so,  to  save  our  souls  and  the 
souls  of  others  from  hell-fire,  and  to  obtain  the 
crown  of  glory  !  O,  Lord,  give  us  more  zeal  and 
watchfulness,  and  suffer  us  not  to  stand  still  and 
draw  insensibly  back  to  perdition  ;  but  let  "our 
whole  life  be  a  continual  preparation  to  meet  our 
blessed  bridegroom.  Amen  and  Amen. 

The  fulness  of  eternal  bliss 

We  shall  from  thee  receive  above, 

This  the  reward  of  conquests,  this 
The  crown  of  all  victorious  love. 

Conquerer  of  sin,  and  hell,  and  death, 
As  thou  the  dreadful  fight  hast  won, 

And  wearest   now  the  immortal  wreath  ; 
And  sittest  on  thy  father's  throne. 

So  that  thou  grant  to  all  that  fight, 
And  conquer  in  thy  mighty  name, 

To  claim  the  kingdom  as  their  right. 

Their  suft' 'rings  and  their  crown  the  same. 

Who  bore  thy  cross  shall  wear  thy  crown, 

Shall  triumph  in  thy  victory, 
And  in  thy  glorious  throne  sit  down, 

And  reign  in  endless  bliss  with  thee. 


118  APRIL  20. 

My  son, give  me  thine  heart,  and  let  thine  eyes  ob- 
serve my  ways,  Prov.  xxiii.  26. 

By  giving  the  whole,  that  is,  thy  heart,  to  the 
Lord  Jesus,  not  only  every  part  of  thy  duty  will 
be  facilitated,  but  whatever  thou  dost  to  his  glory, 
great  or  small,  will  be  equally  acceptable  to  him. 
Therefore  the  language  of  a  believer  is,  ''  My  Lord, 
and  my  God,  I  am  my  beloved's,  and  my  beloved  is 
mine,  and  his  desire  is  towards  me."  Cant.  vi.  3. 
and  vii.  10.  Thou  being  mine,  what  can  I  want? 
I  being  thine,  how  can  I  deny  thee  any  thing  ? 

My  worthless  heart  to  gain, 

The  God  of  all  that  breathe 
Was  found  in  fashion  as  a  man, 

And  died  a  cursed  death. 

And  can  I  yet  delay 

My  little  all  to  give, 
To  tear  my  soul  from  earth  away, 

For  Jesus  to  receive  % 

Nay,  but  I  yield,  I  yield  ! 

I  can  hold  out  no  more, 
I  sink,  by  dying  love  compell'd. 

And  own  thee  conquerer. 
Come,  and  possess  me  whole, 

Nor  hence  again  remove : 
Settle,  and  fix  my  wavering  soul 

With  all  thy  weight  of  love. 
My  life,  my  portion,  thou. 

Thou  all  sufficient  art. 
My  hope,  my  heavenly  treasure,  now, 

Enter  and  keep  my  heart. 


APRIL  21.  119 

If  we  believe  not,  yet  he  abideth  faithful,  he 
cannot  deny  himself.  2  Tim.  ii.  13.  Isa.  1.  7, 
10.  Chap.  xlii.  3.  Rom.  x.  13.  Blessed  are 
they  who  do  hunger  and  thirst  after  righteous- 
ness, for  they  shall  be  filled.  Matt  v.  6. 

Whoever  has  such  a  hungering  and  thirsting 
heart,  desiring  grace  above  all  things,  calling  upon 
the  name  of  the  Lord,  and  depending  only  upon 
Christ,  as  a  justifying  faith  already,  and  is  in  a  state 
of  salvation,  though  as  yet  he  has  not  the  full  assur- 
ance of  it.  This  is  a  fruit  of  the  former,  but  it 
is  not  always  enjoyed  so  soon,  nor  constantly,  at 
least  not  without  hard  conflicts. 

Jesus,  if  still  the  same  thou  art, 

If  all  thy  promises  are  sure, 
Set  up  thy  kingdom  in  my  heart, 

And  make  me  rich,  for  I  am  poor  ; 
To  me  be  all  thy  treasures  given, 
The  kingdom  of  an  inward  heaven. 

Where  is  the  blessedness  bestowed 

On  all  that  hunger  after  thee  ? 
I  hunger  now,  I  thirst  for  God  1 

See,  the  poor  fainting  sinner,  see, 
And  satisfy  with  endless  peace, 
And  fill  me  with  thy  righteousness. 

Lord,  I  believe  the  promise  sure, 
And  trust  thou  wilt  not  long  delay  : 

Hungry,  and  sorrowful,  and  poor, 
Upon  thy  word  myself  I  stay ! 

Into  thine  hands  my  all  resign, 

And  wait  till  ail  thou  art  is  mine. 


120  APRIL  22. 

God,  who  is  rich  in  mercy,  for  his  great  love  where- 
with  he  loved  us,  even  when  ive  were  dead  in  sins, 
has  quickened  together  with  Christ,  (by  grace  are 
ye  saved)  and  has  raised  us  up  together,  and  made 
us  sit  together  in  heavenly  places  in  Chtist  Jesus. 
Eph.  ii.  4,  5,  6. 

Christ  being  our  head,  who  are  his  members,  are 
together  with  him  dead,  buried,  raised  up,  and  seat- 
ed in  heavenly  places ;  for  he  is  the  new  Adam,  and 
has  done  all  these  things   as  our  representative  in 
our  stead,  and  for  our  good.     Thus  have  1  suffered 
in  thee,  O  my  glorious  head,  for  all  my  sms  already. 
I  am  discharged,  I  have  no  punishment  to  fear  any 
more.     Thou  hast  fully  answered  the  charge  against 
me,  satisfied  the  infinite  justice  of  God  for  me  ;  and 
it  is  impossible  with  his  equity  and  love,  to  require 
a  double   payment   of  my   debts.     Consequently  I 
die  no  more,  since  thou  canst  die  no  more  ;  nay  I 
live  already,  and  have  my  place  with  thee  eternally 
in  heaven,  since  the  head  can,  and  will  never  part, 
even  with  the  weakest  of  his  membeis,  but  influ- 
ence and  draw  it  after  him  wherever  he  goes. 
O  Lord  we  praise  thee  for  thy  Son, 
Who  join'd  our  nature  to  his  own  ; 
Adam  the  second,  from  the  dust, 
Raises  the  ruins  of  the  first. 
By  the  rebellion  of  one  man 
Through  all  his  seed  the  mischief  ran  : 
And  by  one  man's  obedience  now 
Are  rill  his  seed  made  righteous  too. 
When  sin  did  reign  and  death  abound, 
There  have  the  sons  of  Adam  found 
Abounding  life ;  there  glorious  grace 
Reigns  through  the  Lord  our  righteousness. 


APRIL  23.  121 

God  has  made  him  to  be  sin  for  us,  who  knew  nosing 
that  we  might  be  made  the  righteousness  of  God 
in  him.  2  Cor.  v.  2 1 .  But  to  him  that  worketh  not, 
hut  believeth  on  him  that  juHifes  the  ungodly,  his 
faith  is  counted  for  righteousness.  Rom.  iv.  5. 

These  are  very  sweet  and  precious  words,  to  those 
who  look  upon  their  own  best  virtues  and  performan- 
ces by  nature  as  sinful,  arid  upon  their  best  condition 
by  grace,  as  extremely  weak  and  imperfect.  How 
comfortable  a  thing  is  the  justification  of  the  ungodly 
by  faith,  when  the  soul  is  first  stript  quite  naked  be- 
fore God,  and  thoroughly  convinced  of  her  wicked- 
ness and  weakness.  This  a  mere  moral  and  legal 
man  does  not  meddle  with.  He  pretends  to  make 
amends  for  his  former  sins,  by  altering  his  course 
and  doing  better  works  ;  but  this  is  not  making 
amends  at  all,  since  we  are  but  unprofitable  servants 
and  want  continually  forgiveness  of  sin,  even  when 
we  have  done  all.  We  never  have  any  reason  to 
justify  ourselves  before  God,  though  we  should  do 
ever  so  well  and  suffer  ever  so  innocently  in  regard 
to  men.  For  from  it  there  is  but  one  way  to  be 
justified,  and  to  obtain  and  preserve  the  blessing  of 
a  good  conscience,  which  is  by  humbling  and  con- 
fessing ourselves  guilty,  and  looking  only  for  for- 
giveness and  righteousness  in  Christ.  Thus  we  are 
made  by  him  the  righteousness  of  God  itself.  May 
the  Lord  put  us  all  in  this  way. 

Yes,  I  must  and  will  esteem 

All  things  but  loss  for  Jesus'  sakcj 

O  may  my  soul  be  found  in  him, 
And  of  his  righteousness  partake. 
11 


122  APRIL  24. 

God  has  exalted  Christ  Jesus  with  his  right  hand, 
to  be  a  Prince  and  a  Saviour,  for  to  give  repent' 
ance  unto  Israel,  and  forgiveness  of  sins.  Acts, 
V.31. 

Think  not,  what  reason  have  I  to  repent !  I  am 
DO  murderer  or  robber ;  for  thou  art  both.  By  thy 
sins  thoa  hast  murdered  the  Son  of  God,  and  by  thy 
pride  robbed  God  of  his  own :  Therefore,  if  thy  old 
heart  is  not  changed  yet  into  a  new  one,  and  thou 
feeiest  some  uneasiness  on  account  of  thine  eternal 
salvation,  great  care  is  to  be  taken  not  to  mistake 
it  for  temptations  of  the  devil ;  but  believe  me,  that 
it  is  the  work  of  Christ,  who  awakes  thee,  and  of- 
fers thee  repentance,  and  Will  make  thee  quite  an- 
other man.  "  He  stands  at  the  door  and  knocks  ; 
and  if  any  man  will  hear  his  voice  and  open  the 
door,  he  will  come  in  to  him  and  sup  with  him.** 
Rev.  iii.  20. 

Now  Christ  will  every  want  supply, 

And  fill  our  hearts  with  peace  ; 
He  gives  by  cov'nant  and  by  oath, 

The  riches  of  his  grace. 
Our  heart,  that  flinty  stubborn  thing, 

That  terrors  cannot  move, 
That  fears  no  threat'nings  of  his  wrath, 

Shall  be  dissolved  by  love. 
There  shall  his  sacred  spirit  dwell, 

And  deep  engrave  his  law, 
And  every  motion  of  our  souls. 

To  swift  obedience  draw. 
Thus  will  he  pour  salvation  down. 

And  we  shall  render  praise  ; 
We  the  dear  people  of  his  love, 
And  he  our  God  of  grace. 


APRIL  26.  123 

God  is  not  a  God  of  confusion.  1  Cor.  xiv.  33.  He 
has  made  every  thing  beautiful  in  its  season.  Also 
he  has  set  the  world  in  their  hearts^  so  that  no  man 
can  find  out  the  work  that  God  makes  from  the  he- 
ginning  to  the  end.  Eccles.  iii.  11. 

O  Lord,  I  am  like  a  little  child,  knowing  neither 
the  beginning  nor  end  of  my  ways  ;  but  thou  be- 
ing my  counsellor,  I  think  it  my  only  wisdom  to  be 
advised  and  ruled  by  thee.  O  show  me  then  al- 
ways the  way  in  all  things,  even  in  the  least,  that  I 
may  never  miss  to  do  thy  work  in  due  season  and 
due  order.  Make  me  such  a  faithful  steward  as  not 
to  go  one  inch  from  thy  will,  but  on  all  occasions 
to  act  and  suffer  according  to  thy  good  pleasure. 

Whither,  O  whither  should  I  fly, 
But  to  my  loving  Saviour's  breast, 

Secure  within  thy  arms  to  lie, 

And  safe  beneath  thy  wings  to  rest. 

I  have  no  might  to  oppose  the  foe. 
But  everlasting  strength  is  thine  ; 

Show  me  the  way  that  I  should  go, 
Show  me  the  path  I  should  decline. 

Which  shall  I  leave  and  which  pursue  ? 

Thou  only  my  adviser  be  ; 
My  God,  I  know  not  what  to  do, 

But  oh !  mine  eyes  are  fixed  on  thee. 

Foolish,  and  impotent,  and  Wind, 
Lead  me  a  way  I  have  not  known, 

Bring  me  where  I  my  heaven  may  find» 
The  heaven  of  love  and  thee  alone* 


124  APRIL  26. 

Now  he  who  establisheth  us  with  yonin  Christy 
and  has  annointed  us,  is  God ;  who  has  also 
sealed  us,  and  gives  us  the  earnest  of  the  spi- 
rit in  our  hearts.  2  Cor.  i.  21,  22.  Eph.  i.  14. 

A  sensible  joy  of  faith,  and  great  delight  in  pray- 
er, are  not  the  only  evidences  of  this  earnest  and 
sealing  of  the  spirit ;  these  sometimes  are  wanting ; 
but  we  may  know  also,  to  be  sealed  by  these 
marks,  that  we  receive  Christ  in  all  his  offices,  that 
we  have  a  sincere  desire  to  do  only  the  will  of  God 
in  all  things,  that  we  hate  sin  irreconcilably,  that 
we  are  humbled,  convinced,  and  led  into  all  truths 
by  the  spirit.  These  are  constant  marks  even  for 
the  weakest. 

Why  should  the  children  of  a  king 

Go  mourning  all  their  days, 
Great  comforter  descend  and  bring 

Some  tokens  of  thy  grace. 

Dost  thou  not  dwell  in  all  thy  saints, 

And  seal  the  heirs  of  heaven  ? 
When  wilt  thou  banish  my  complaints^ 

And  show  my  sins  forgiven  ? 

Assure  my  conscience  of  her  part 

In  the  Redeemer's  blood, 
And  bear  thy  witness  with  my  heart,. 

That  I  am  born  of  God. 

Thou  art  the  earnest  of  his  love, 

The  pledge  of  joys  to  come, 
And  thy  soft  wings,  celestial  Dove, 

Will  safe  convey  me  home. 


APRIL  27.  126 

Ood  he  merciful  to  me  a  sinner,  Luke,  xviii.  13. 
Look  upon  my  affliction  and  my  pain,  and  for- 
give  all  my  sins,  Psal.  xxv.  18.  Divine  answer. 
The  Lord  is  gracious  and  full  of  compassion, 
and  of  great  mercy;  the  Lord  is  good  to  all, 
and  his  tender  mercies  are  over  all  his  works, 
Psal.  cxlv.  8,  9.  Therefore,  my  son,  be  of 
good  cheer,  thy  sins  are  forgiven  thee.  Matt. 
ix.  2. 

Justification  or  remission  of  sins  before  the  tri- 
bunal of  God,  and  the  comfortable  assurance  of  it 
in  the  heart,  do  not  always  go  together.  The  sen- 
tence of  pardon  may  be  passed,  and  the  sense  of  it 
be  wanting  for  a  time,  or  consist  only  in  some  fee- 
ble glimpses  now  and  then.  The  former  is  done  all 
at  once,  in  the  most  perfect  manner  :  The  latter  is 
given  by  degrees,  as  far  as  beUevers  are  able  to  re- 
ceive it :  therefore  a  penitent  soul  must  converse 
much  with  the  gospel,  and  pray  continually  for 
more  light  and  a  greater  degree  of  faith  and  peace. 
O  God  of  mercy,  hear  my  call ; 

My  load  of  guilt  remove. 
Break  down  this  separating  wall, 

That  bars  me  from  thy  love. 
Give  me  the  presence  of  thy  grace, 

Then  my  rejoicing  tongue 
Shall  speak  around  thy  righteousness, 
And  make  thy  praise  my  song. 

A  soul  opprest  with  sin's  desert 

My  God  will  ne'er  despise, 
A  humble  groan,  a  broken  heart 

Is  our  best  sacrifice. 
11* 


126  APRIL  28. 

Delight  thyself  in  the  Lord,  and  he  shall  give 
thee  the  desires  of  thine  heart.  Psal.  xxxvii.  4». 

If  thou  desirest  to  delight  thyself  only  in  the^ 
Lord,  and  art  more  solicitous  for  the  increase  o€ 
faith,  love,  and  holiness,  than  temporal  happiness* 
and  wouldst  even  loose  the  latter,  provided  there- 
was  an  addition  to  the  former ;  this  comes  not  from 
nature,  but  is  an  infallible  mark  of  grace  and  re- 
generation ;  and  the  Lord  shall  give  thee  also  the 
desires  of  thine  heart,  and  even  more  than  thou.; 
desirest.  I 

Nothing  can  be  more  foolish,  than  to  harbour 
one  or  more  secret  lusts  in  our  hearts,  after  we 
have  been  once  awakened.  We  must  certainly 
suffer  for  it ;  our  conscience  will  check  us  for  it : 
we  cannot  enjoy  it  with  half  the  pleasure  as  before; 
Our  course  is  hindered,  and  our  peace  disturbed- 
How  much  more  prudent  and  profitable  then  would 
it  be,  to  forsake  all  and  follow  Christ  straight,  who 
can  only  satisfy  the  desires  of  our  heart !  Consider 
this,  O  my  soul !  act  the  wiser  part ;  let  thy  eye  be 
single;  cleave  to  him  alone,  wlien  others  cleaving 
to  the  creatures,  pretend  to  serve  two  masters. 
Thus  thou  wilt  be  able  to  taste  the  kisses  of  his 
mouth,  and  the  crystal  streams  of  his  comfortable 
and  heavenly  love. 

Dear  Saviour,  let  thy  beauties  be 

My  soul's  eternal  food  : 
And  grace  command  my  heart  away 

From  all  created  good. 


APRIL  29-  127 

Healme,  O  Lord,  and  I  shall  he  healed.  Jer.  xvii  14. 
Divine  answer.  /  am  the  Lord  that  healed  thee. 
Exod.  XV.  26.  They  that  be  whole  need  not  a  phy- 
sician, but  they  that  are  sick.  Mat.  ix.  12.  /  have 
seen  his  tvays,  and  will  heal  them.  Isa.  Ixii.  18. 
xlii.  3.  and  ixi.  1 .  He  healed  all  that  were  sick. 
Matt.  viii.  15-17. 

This  vi'as  an  emblem  of  his  power  and  grace  to 
Ileal  all  spiritual  diseases  of  our  souls,  though  ever 
so  desperate  and  dangerous.  Therefore  give  thy- 
self only  up  to  his  cure,  he  understands  thy  distem- 
per also,  and  will  certainly  restore  thee.  He  has 
healed  a  great  many  already  :  nay,  all  those  who 
ever  desired  it,  from  all  their  infirmities.  Thou 
canst  never  be  too  miserable  and  bad  for  him ;  he 
is  ever  willing  and  able  to  help.  The  worse  thy 
case  is,  the  more  he  will  pity  thee  and  have  pa- 
tience. Before  we  can  be  made  whole,  his  way  is 
to  make  us  thoroughly  sensible  of  our  sickness,  and 
lay  our  wounds  more  and  more  open.  But  as  the 
physician  then  is  most  wanted,  we  must  be  the 
more  earnest  to  implore  his  help,  and  he  will  sure- 
ly bind  us  up  again  and  heal  us,  though  perhaps 
not  at  once,  but  sometimes  slowly  and  wonderful- 
ly, yet  thoroughly  at  last,  for  he  heals  all,  even 
the  most  incurable  diseases.  Psal.  ciii.  3. 

Bind  up,  O  Lord,  and  cheer  my  soul 

With  thy  forgiving  love  : 
O  make  my  broken  spirit  whole, 

And  bid  my  pains  remove. 

Let  not  thy  spirit  quite  depart. 

Nor  drive  me  from  thy  face  ! 
Create  anew  my  vicious  heart, 

And  fill  it  with  thy  grace. 


128  APRIL  30. 

Lord,  thou  knowest  that  I  love  thee.  Johtij 
xxi.  15. 

This  love  is  the  fruit  of  the  love  of  Christ,  and 
consequently  cannot  have  place  till  this  is  shed 
abroad  in  our  hearts,  that  we  can  confidently  rest 
upon  it.  As  in  striking  a  circle,  one  point  of  the 
compasses  must  be  kept  steady  in  the  centre,  if  the 
other  shall  go  right ;  so  our  faith  must  be  irnmove- 
ably  fixed  in  Christ,  in  his  righteousness,  grace,  and 
love,  if  the  reciprocal  love  and  sanctification  shall 
follow;  but  relying  only  on  gifts  of  sanctification, 
yields  no  settled  peace  and  assurance,  and  conse- 
quently no  strength  to  walk  steadily  in  love. 

,     Jesus,  thy  boundless  love  to  me 

No  thought  can  reach,  no  tongue  declare  : 

O  knit  my  thankful  heart  to  thee, 
And  reign  without  a  rival  there  ; 

Thine  wholly,  thine  alone  I  am  : 
Be  thou  alone  my  constant  flame. 

O  grant  that  nothing  in  my  soul 

May  dwell,  but  thy  pure  love  alone : 

O  may  thy  love  possess  me  whole, 
My  joy,  my  treasure,  and  my  crown, 

Strange  fires  far  from  my  soul  remove, 
My  every  act,  word,  thoughts  be  love. 


MAY  1.  129 

Lord,  enter  not  into  judgment  with  thy  servant. 
Psal.  cxlii.  2.  Divine  answer.  Verily^  verily-,  I  say 
unto  you,  he  that  heareth  my  voice-,  and  believeth 
on  him  that  sent  me,  hath  everlasting  life,  and 
shall  not  come  into  condemnation,  but  is  i)assed 
from  death  unto  Ife.  John  v.  24.  See  also  John 
viii.  61.  Isa.  xxv.  8. 

Since  the  Judge  himself  is  our  brother,  our 
bridegroom,  the  Lord  of  death  and  life,  yea  even 
our  life,  believers  cannot  die  any  more,  but  are 
passed  from  death  unto  life,  it  being  impossible 
that  Christ  should  die  again.  He  that  owns  the  justice 
of  God's  judgment,  confesses  himself  guilty  in  all 
things,  and  appeals  from  the  judgment-seat  to  the 
mercy-seat,  him  the  Lord  will  own  and  justify  again 
through  the  righteousness  of  his  Son  :  for  "  if  we 
would  judge  ourselves  we  should  not  be  judged. 
We  shall  even  judge  together  with  Christ."  1  Cor. 
vi.  2.  and  surely  we  will  not  condemn  ourselves, 
much  less  will  Christ;  for  he  loves  us  more  than 
we  do  ourselves. 

Who  shall  the  Lord's  elect  condemn  ? 

'Tis  God  that  justifies  their  souls, 
And  mercy,  like  a  mighty  stream, 
O'er  all  their  sins  divinely  rolls. 
Who  shall  adjudge  the  saints  to  hell  ? 

'Tis  Christ  that  suffered  in  their  stead  j 
And  the  salvatiori  to  fulfil, 

Behold  him  rising  from  the  dead. 
Faith  hath  an  overcoming  power, 
It  triumphs  in  the  dying  hour  ; 
Christ  is  our  life,  our  joy,  our  hope, 
Nor  can  we  sink  with  such  a  prop* 


130  MAY  2. 

Crive  heed  to  me,  O  Lord.  Jer.  xviii.  19.  Divine  an- 
swer. Behold,  he  that  keepeth  Israel  shall  neither 
slumber  nor  sleep.   Psal.  cxxi.  4.  They  that  put 
their  trust  in  him  shall  understand  the  truth,  and 
such  as  be  faithful,  shall  remain  with  him  in  lavd 
for  grace  and  mercy  is  to  his  saints  ^  and  he  has 
care  for  his  elect.  Wisd.  iii.  9. 
The  care  of  the  Lord  which  he  takes  for  his  lit- 
tle ones,  far  and  infinitely  exceeds  the  care  of  the 
most  tender  mother   over  her   weak  and  helpless 
^hild.  Be  I  then  never  so  weak,  miserable,  and  fool- 
ish in  my  own  eyes,  the  Lord  being  the  guardian  of 
such  babes,  will  have  patience  with  me.    Nay,  these 
are  the  very  vessels  of  his  grace.  Therefore,  con- 
sidering myself  always  as  a  weak,  ignorant  child,  I 
will  keep  close  to  him.    He  is  the  minister  of  the 
sanctuary,  and  will  never  let  me  want  any  thing ; 
but  defend,  provide,  and  train  me  up  in  the  best  and 
most  suitable  manner. 

Be  thou  my  counsellor, 

My  pattern,  and  my  guide  ; 
And  through  this  desert  land 
Still  keep  me  near  thy  side. 
O  let  my  feet 
Ne'er  run  astray, 
Nor  rove,  nor  seek 
The  crooked  way. 
Should  all  the  hosts  of  death, 

And  powers  of  hell  unknown, 
Put  their  most  dreadful  forms 
Of  rage  and  mischief  on, 
IshaU  be  safe: 
For  Christ  displays 
Superior  power 
And  guardian  grace. 


MAY  3.  131 

The  Lord,  the  Lord  God,  merciful  and  gracious^ 
long-suffering  and  abundant  in  goodness  and 
truth.  Keeping  mercy  for  thousands,  forgiving 
iniquity,  and  transgression  and  sin,  Exod. 
xxxiv.  6,  7.  God  is  love.  Who  will  separate  vs 
from  the  love  of  God9  In  all  things  we  are 
more  than  conquerors,  fyc*  1  John,  iv.  16. 
Rom.  viii.  35,  37. 

O  my  dear  Saviour,  pour  thy  love  out  into  my 
heart  by  thy  holy  spirit,  that  by  a  true  sense  and 
enjoyment  of  it,  I  may  be  able  to  love  thee  recipro- 
cally with  ray  whole  heart,  and  do  all  things  singly 
from  u  principle  of  love  and  gratitude  towards  thee. 
I  have  long  prayed  for  it,  O  Lord  I  thou  canst  not 
deny  it  me  ;  I  must  have  this  petition  granted. 

Christ  died,  and  lives,  and  sits  above, 

For  ever  interceding  there  : 
Who  shall  divide  us  from  his  love, 

Or  what  should  tempt  us  to  despair  ? 

Shall  persecution,  or  distress, 
Famine,  or  sword,  or  nakedness  ? 
He  that  has  loved  us,  bears  us  through, 
And  makes  us  more  than  conqu'rors  too. 

Not  all  that  men  on  earth  can  do, 
Nor  powers  on  high,  nor  powers  below. 
Shall  cause  his  mercy  to  remove. 
Or  wean  our  hearts  from  God,  our  love. 


132  MAY  4. 

In  thee  O  Lord,  do  I  put  my  trust,  let  me  never 
he  put  to  confusion.  Psal.  Ixxi.  1.  Christ's 
intercession :  Let  not  'them  that  wait  on  thee, 
O  Lord  God  of  hosts,  he  ashamed  for  my 
sake,  Psal.  Ixix.  6.  /  have  prayed  fox  thee. 
That  thy  faith  fail  not,  Luke,  xxii.  32. 

Some  say  I  have  enough  of  faith ;  how  could  I 
else  be  a  Christian  ?  If  I  could  live  godly  according- 
ly. But  it  is  just  the  contrary  ;  godliness  is  the  fruit 
of  faith,  and  if  there  was  the  tree  of  the  heart, 
the  fruit  will  soon  follow.  An  historical  and  ra- 
tional faith  is  not  enough.  Was  it  such  an  easy 
matter  to  believe,  whal  need  of  Christ's  interces- 
sion ?  O  my  dear  Saviour,  pray  for  me  also,  that 
the  gift  of  faith  may  be  given  me,  and  that  I  may 
persevere  to  the  end. 

Jesus  the  Lord  shall  guard  me  safe 

From  every  ill  design; 
And  to  his  heavenly  kingdom  take 

This  feeble  soul  of  mine. 

Mine  eyes  and  my  desire 

Are  ever  to  the  Lord : 
I  love  to  plead  his  promises, 

And  rest  upon  his  word. 

O  keep  my  soul  from  death, 

Nor  put  my  hope  to  shame ; 
For  I  have  plac'd  my  only  trust 

In  my  Redeemer's  name. 


MAY  6.  133 

Lord,  teach  us    to  number  our  days,  that  we 
may  apply  our  hearts  to  wisdom.  Psal.  xc.  12. 

He  that  does  not  lay  much  and  seriously  to  heart, 
the  shortness  of  his  life,  and  the  uncertainty,  as 
well  as  the  infinitely  important  consequences  of  Iws 
death,  is  not  a  wise,  but  a  foolish  and  very  incon- 
siderate man,  though  he  was  never  so  great  a  phi- 
losopher and  statesman.  But  the  right  and  true 
consideration  of  death,  must  be  earnestly  prayed 
for,  and  this  we  must  do  directly,  without  the  least 
delay ;  for  the  art  of  dying  well,  is  not  so  soon  and 
so  easily  learned. 

Thee  we  adore,  eternal  name, 

And  humbly  own  to  thee. 
How  feeble  is  our  mortal  frame, 
What  dying  worms  are  we ! 

Dangers  stand  thick  through  all  the  ground 

To  push  us  to  the  tomb  ; 
And  fierce  diseases  wait  around, 
To  hurry  mortals  home. 

Good  God  !  on  what  a  slender  thread 

Hang  everlasting  things  ! 
The  eternal  states  of  all  the  dead 

Upon  life's  feeble  strings. 

Infinite  joy  or  endless  wo 

Attends  on  every  breath  ; 
And  yet  how  unconcerned  we  go 

Upon  the  brink  of  death. 

Waken,  O  Lord,  our  drowsy  sense, 

To  walk  this  dangerous  road  ; 
And  if  our  souls  are  hurried  hence, 

May  they  be  found  with  God. 
12 


134  MAY  6. 

O  Lordfpardon  mine  iniquity,  for  it  is  great.  Psal. 
XXV.  1 1 .  Divine  answer.  Where  sin  abounded, 
grace  did  much  more  abound.  Rom.  v.  20.  For 
God  will  abundantly  pardon.    Isa.lv.  7. 

It  is  all  one  v«^ith  God  to  forgive  a  repenting  sin- 
ner his  trespasses,  whether  great  or  small,  many  or 
few  ;  for  they  are  all  paid  with  one  ransom.  No 
sin,  properly  speaking,  is  little  in  itself ;  and  none 
greater  than  the  grace  of  God,  and  the  infinite 
price  laid  down  for  it.  Whatever  sins  therefore  a 
man  feels,  yet  he  may  throw  himself  upon  the 
abounding  grace  of  God.  But  this  grace  must  al- 
ways be  our  comfort,  to  depend  upon  it  alone,  even 
when  it  is  best  for  us  ;  for  then  only  it  is  best  with 
us  when  we  depend  alone  on  grace,  and  live  in  it 
as  in  our  element. 

Why  does  your  face,  ye  humble  souls, 

Those  mournful  colors  wear  ? 
What  doubts  are  these  that  waste  your  faith, 

And  nourish  your  despair  ? 

What  though  your  num'rous  sins  exceed 

The  stars  that  fill  the  skies, 
And  aiming  at  the  eternal  throne, 

Like  pointed  mountains  rise  ? 

See  here  an  endless  ocean  flows 

Of  never-failing  grace  : 
Behold  a  dying  Saviour's  veins 

The  sacred  flood  increase. 
It  raises  high  and  drowns  the  hills, 

Has  neither  shore  nor  bound  : 
Now  if  we  search  to  find  our  sins, 

Our  sins  can  ne'er  be  found. 


MAY  7.  135 

Hai^e  mercy  upon  me.  O  Lord,  for  lam  weak.  Psal. 
vi.  8.  And  strengthen  me  with  strength  in  my  soul. 
Psal.  cxxxviii.  3.  Divine  answer.  My  grace  is  suf- 
Jicientfor  thee ;  for  my  strength  is  made  perfect  in 
weakness.  2  Cor.  xii.  9.  TJie  Lord  delights  not 
in  the  strength  of  the  horse,  he  takes  not  pleasure 
in  the  legs  of  a  man.  The  Lord  takes  pleasure  in 
them  that  fear  him,  in  those  that  hope  for  mercy* 
Psal.  cxlvii.  10,  11.  The  Lord,  our  strength, 
mighty  God,  and  Emmanuel,  will  give  strength 
unto  his  people.  Psal.  xxix.  11. 

Wherein  the  soul  seems  to  be  weakest,  and  has 
the  greatest  struggle  with  nature,  she  may  be 
strongest  through  grace,  and  come  off  with  a  most 
glorious  crown.  Therefore  judge  and  despair  not  of 
overcoming  by  the  power  of  God,  be  there  ever  so 
strong  and  obstinate  enemies  in  thee  or  in  others  ; 
I  am  weak  indeed,  but  Christ  is  strong ;  I  am  poor, 
he  is  rich;  1  am  sick,  he  the  physician  of  the  sick; 
I  a  sinner,  he  the  Saviour  of  sinners  ;  consequent- 
ly he  suits  me,  and  I  suit  him  extremely  well. 

Let  me  but  hear  my  Saviour  say, 
Strength  shall  be  equal  to  thy  day ; 
Then  I  rejoice  in  deep  distress, 
Leaning  on  all-sufficient  grace. 
I  glory  in  infirmity, 

That  Christ's  own  power  may  rest  on  me  * 
When  I  am  weak,  then  am  I  strong, 
Grace  is  my  shield,  and  Christ  my  song. 
I  can  do  all  things,  or  can  bear 
All  suff 'rings  if  my  Lord  be  there; 
Sweet  pleasures  mingle  with  the  pains, 
While  his  left  hand  my  head  sustains. 


136  MAY  8. 

Have  mercy  upon  met  O  Lord-,  for  I  am  weak.  Psal. 
vi.  8.  Divine  answer.  Fear  thou  not,  let  not  thine 
hands  he  slack.  The  Lord  thy  God  in  the  midst  of 
thee  is  mighty;  he  will  save,  he  will  rejoice  over 
thee  with  joy ;  he  will  rest  in  his  love,  he  will  joy 
over  thee  with  singing.  Zeph.  iii.  16,  17.  For 
unto  us  a  child  is  born,  unto  us  a  Son  is  given; 
and  the  government  shall  be  upon  his  shoulder,  and 
his  name  shall  be  called  Wonderful,  Counsellor, 
the  mighty  God,  the  everlasting  Father,  the 
Prince  of  Peace.  Isaiah,  ix.  6,  7.  Fear  not,  for 
behold  I  bring  you  good  tidings  of  great  joy. 
Luke  ii.  10. 

O  Lord,  thou  being  also  my  mighty  Saviour, 
Counsellor,  mighty  God  and  all,  what  can  I  want  ?' 
Why  am  I  discouraged  ?  Why  should  it  be  impos- 
sible to  get  the  victory  in  all  things?  There  is 
none  too  deeply  corrupted,  none  too  weak,  and  no 
enemy  too  strong  for  thee.  Thou  art  too  great  a 
match  for  them  all.     Yea,  Amen,  Hallelujah. 

The  virgin's  promis'd  son  is  born, 

Behold  the  expected  Child  appear  ; 
What  shall  his  name  or  titles  be  ? 

The  Wonderful,  the  Counsellor^ 
This  infant  is  the  mighty  God, 

Come  to  be  suckled  and  ador'd  ; 
The  eternal  Father,  Prince  of  Peace, 

The  Son  of  David  and  his  Lord. 
Jesus  the  holy  Child,  shall  sit 

High  on  his  father  David^s  throne, 
Shall  crush  his  foes  beneath  his  feet, 

And  reign  to  ages  yet  unknown. 


MAY  9.  137 

Teach  me  thy  way,  O  Lord-,  and  lead  me  in  a  'plain 
path,  because  of  mine  enemies.  Psal.  xxvii.  2. 
Teach  me  thy  way  O  Lord,  I  will  walk  in  thy  truth; 
unite  my  heart  to  fear  thy  name.  Psal.  Ixxxvi.  11, 
Divine  answer.  Good  and  upi'ight  is  the  Lord-, 
therefore  loill  he  teach  sinners  in  the  way.  What 
man  is  he  that  fears  the  Lord !  Him  shall  he  teach 
intheway  that  he  shall  choose.  Psal.  xxv.  8.  12. 

O  Lord,  be  pleased  to  fulfil  this  gracious  promise 
in  me  also.  Thou  knovvest  that  I  have  nothing  so 
much  at  heart,  as  to  do  thy  will,  and  yet  I  am  very 
often  lost  in  darkness.  I  trust  thou  wilt  do  it. 
Here  it  is  written  ;  it  is  thy  own  word  ;  I  depend 
upon  it :  thou  hast  many  times  accomplished  the 
same  already  ;  and  art  willing  and  able  to  do  it 
evermore,  for  thy  own  n-nne's  sake,  and  for  my 
enemies'  sake.  Thou  being  the  God  of  my  cove- 
nant, I  keep  close  to  thy  words,  which  can  never 
pass  away,  but  all  are  yea  and  amen  in  Christ  Je- 
sus our  Lord  and  Saviour.     Amen. 

I  lift  my  soul  to  God, 

My  trust  is  in  his  name; 
Let  not  my  foes  that  seek  my  blood 

Still  triumph  in  my  shame. 

Sin  and  the  powers  of  hell, 

Persuade  me  to  despair  ; 
Lord,  let  me  know  thy  cov'nant  well, 

That  I  may  'scape  the  snare. 

The  Lord  is  just  and  kind, 

The  meek  shall  learn  his  ways : 

And  every  humble  sinner  find 
The  methods  of  his  grace. 

12* 


138  MAY  10. 

Turn  again  our  captivity^  O  Lord.  Psal.  cxxvi.  4. 
Divine  answer.  The  Lord  has  anointed  me  to 
preach  good  things  unto  the  meek-,  to  proclaim 
liberty  to  the  captives,  and  the  opening  of  the  pri- 
son to  them  that  are  hound.  Isa.  Ixi.  1 .  For  thus 
saith  the  Lord.  <^c.  I  will  give  thee  for  a  cove- 
nant to  the  people,  ^c.  that  thou  mayest  say  to 
the  prisoners,  go  forth;  to  them  that  are  in  dark- 
ness, show  yourselves  :  they  shall  feed  in  the 
ways-,  and  their  pastures  shall  be  in  all  high  pla- 
ces, they  shall  not  hunger  and  thirst.  Isa.  xlix. 
8,  9, 10.  See  also  Chap.  xxxv.  10. 

O  Lord,  I  am  hungering  after  the  righteousness 
and  freedom,  not  only  of  faith,  but  of  life  and  holi- 
ness also  ;  not  to  please  myself  in  the  latter,  but  that 
the  evidence  of  the  former  may  be  so  much  clearer 
by  it  to  me,  and  I  may  be  able  to  rejoice  and  take 
the   comfort   of  thy  righteousness  alone,   without 
deceiving  rny  soul.   Grant,  therefore,  that  I  maybe 
truly  filled,  and  may  be  strong,  easy,  and  free,   as 
not  to  be  kept  any  longer  in  any  of  the  most  sub- 
tle bonds,  either  of  the  law,  unbelief,  and  a  bad 
conscience,  or  of  a  carnal  and  worldly  mind. 
Buried  in  shadows  of  the  night, 
We  lie  till  Christ  restores  the  light ; 
Wisdom  descends  to  heal  the  blind, 
And  chase  the  darkness  of  the  mind. 
Jesus  beholds  where  Satan  reigns, 
Binding  his  slaves  in  heavy  chains- 
He  sets  the  prisner's  free,  and  breaks 
The  iron  bondage  from  our  necks. 
Poor  helpless  worms  in  thee  possess 
Grace,  wisdom,  power,  and  righteousness; 
Thou  art  my  mighty  all,  and  we 
Give  our  whole  selves,  O  Lord,  to  thee. 


MAY  11.  13^ 

How  long  wilt  tJiou  Jiide  thy  face  from  me,  O  Lord  ? 
Psal.  xiii.  2.  Divine  answer.  For  a  small  moment 
have  I  forsaken  thee,  but  with  great  mercies  will  I 
gather  thee.     In  a  little  tvrath  I  hid  my  face  from 
thee  for  a  moment ;  hut  with  everlasting  kindness 
will  I  have  mercy  on  thee,  for  this  is  as  the  waters 
of  Noah,  unto  vie:   For  as  I ha'pe  sworn  that  the 
waters  of  Noah  should  no  more  go  over  the  earth  ; 
so  I  have  sworn  that  I  would  not  he  wroth  with 
thee,  nor  rehuke  thee.  Isaiah,  liv.  7,  9. 
When  the  Lord  is  pleased  to  quicken  us  in  our 
prayers,  with  a  lively  impression  of  one  or  more  pro- 
raises,  we  are  apt  to  think  that  the  hour  of  his  help  was 
come.     But  afterwards  it  may  be,  he  not  only  hides 
himself  for  a  great  while  again,  but  things  take  even 
such  a  strange  contrary  course,  as  if  all  had  been 
nothing,  or  (as  Luther  says)  "  as  if  nothing  was 
more  uncertain  than  the  word  of  God,  nay,  even 
God  himself."     They  who  deny  such  temptations, 
are  strangers  both  to  themselves  and  to  the  devices 
of  Satan.     But  Christians  must  then  be  prudently 
upon  their  guard,  thinking  that  God  is  going  to  do 
some  glorious  things  for  them,  for  if  they  are  first 
more  convinced  of  their  utter  unworthiness,  if  they 
act  faith  and  patience,  and  more  earnest  in  pray- 
ers, they  are  fit  to  receive  so  much  more  grace  af- 
terwards. 

Dear  Lord,  behold  our  sore  distress, 

Our  sins  attempt  to  reign  : 
Stretch  out  thine  arm  of  conqu'ring  grace, 

And  let  thy  foes  be  slain. 
How  boundless  is  our  Father's  grace, 

In  height,  and  depth,  and  length  ? 
He  made  his  Son  our  righteousness, 
His  spirit  is  our  strength. 


140  MAY  12. 

How  long  loilt  thou  for  get  me,  O  Lord?  Psal.  xiii.  2. 
Divine  answer.  Can  a  woman  forget  her  sucking 
child'  that  she  should  not  have  compassion  on  the 
son  of  her  womb?  Yea,  they  may  forget-,  yet  will 
I  not  forget  thee.  Behold  I  have  graven  thee  upon 
the  palms  of  my  hands,  thy  walls  are  continually 
before  me.  Isa.  xliv.  15,  16.  I  will  not  leave  you 
comfortless.  John,  xiv.  18. 

Were  all  our  sins  and  afflictions  so  soon  to  be 
prayed  away  with  a  few  words,  whence  these  sad 
and  repeated  words  of  David  ?  Why  should  God 
advise  us  to  wait  for  him  and  persevere  in  hope  ? 
and  how  could  faith  and  patience  be  exercised  ?  In 
our  closets  we  may  be  lifted  up  with  high  specula- 
tions ;  seem  to  be  strono-.  and  able  to  leap  over  all 
the  walls ;  but  in  great  distress  we  see  how  deject- 
ed, and  as  it  were  despondent  our  hearts  are.  Psal. 
XXX.  7,  8.  But  the  Lord  preserve  us. 
Why  do  we  thus  iiidulge  our  fears, 

Suspicions,  and  complaints? 
Is  he  a  God,  and  irhall  his  grace 

Grow  weary  of  his  saints  ? 
Can  a  kind  woman  e'er  forget 

The  infant  of  her  womb  ; 
And  'mongst  a  thousand  tender  thoughts 

Her  suckling  have  no  room  ? 
Yet,  says  the  Lord-  should  nature  change, 

And  mothers,  monsters  prove  ; 
Zion  still  dwells  upon  the  heart 

Of  everlasting  K>ve. 
Deep  on  the  palms  of  both  my  hands 

I  have  engraved  her  name  ; 
My  hands  shall  raise  her  ruined  walls> 
And  build  her  broken  frame. 


MAY  13.  141 

Show  me  thy  ways,  O  Lord,  and  teach  me  thy 
paths.  Psal.  xxv.  4.  Show  me  now  thy  way, 
that  I  may  knoiv  thee.  Exod.  xxx.  iii.  13. 
Divine  answer.  I  will  instruct  thee  and  teach 
thee  in  the  way  which  thou  shalt  go :  I  vjill 
guide  thee  with  mine  eye.  Psal.  xxxii.  8.  My 
presence  shall  go  with  thee,  and  I  will  give 
thee  rest.  Ex. xxx  iii. 

O  Lord,  suffer  me  not  to  deviate  one  inch  from 
the  way,  much  less  to  fall  away  from  thee,  the  true 
vine  and  fortress  of  my  soul,  by  the  plausible  in- 
sinuations of  my  own  brain  and  imagination.  May 
I  never  run,  before  thou  hast  called  me,  to  the  hurt 
of  my  soul ;  but  constantly  and  confidently  abide  in 
thee,  always  drawing  first  the  necessary  light  and 
strength  from  thee  by  never  ceasing  supplications. 
Grant  that  my  eye  being  fixed  continually  upon 
thee,  I  may  be  guided  into  all  truth,  my  doings  be 
attended  with  thy  blessings,  and  my  whole  life  be  d. 
constant  progress  towards  heaven.  Christ's  answer : 
"  I  will  keep  thee  as  the  apple  of  mine  eye,  that 
no  evil  shall  come  near  thee.  As  a  careful  mother, 
watches  over  her  child,  so  have  1  undertaken  to 
teach  thee  my  path,  and  guide  thee  with'mine  own 
eyes.  Whatever  faintings  and  failings  may  befall 
thee,  yet  will  I  be  ever  faithful,  raising  thee  up 
again,  and  pushing  thee  on  evermore  in  my  ways. 
Nay,  as  a  good  shepherd,  I'll  carry  thee  in  my  own 
arms,  whenever  thy  increasing  weakness  shall  re- 


quire." 


My  honour  is  engaged  to  save 
The  meanest  of  my  sheep  ; 

All  that  my  heavenly  Father  gave, 
My  hands  securely  keep." 


142  MAY  14. 

By  these  (books)  my  son,  be  admonished.   Eccles. 

xii.  1 2.  But,  as  new-born  babes,  desire  the  sincere 

milk   of  the  word,  thut  ye  may  grow   thereby. 

1  Pet.  ii.  2. 

New-born  babes  must  not  self-conceitedly  be  de- 
sirous of  high  things  and  strong  meat.  Such  have 
more  need  experimentally  to  understand  the  first 
oracles  of  Christ,  and  taste  evermore  the  milk  and 
saving  power  of  the  gospel.  This  would  best  make 
them  grow  in  grace  and  wean  them  from  the  world ; 
since  a  sucking  child  esteems  nothing  else  in  com- 
parison of  his  mother's  breast  ;  and  those  that  de- 
light more  in  lofty,  vain  imaginations  and  a  strange 
sort  of  hymns,  than  the  bible,  do  not  follow  the  true 
spirit,  and  at  last  must  come  to  their  catechism 
again.  For  the  more  a  Christian  is  approaching  to 
his  end,  and  desires  to  be  duly  prepared  for  heaven, 
the  more  he  walks  in  deep  humility  and  godly  sim- 
plicity, placing  himself  on  the  lowest  bench  of 
weak  and  little  children.  And  thus  they  are  the 
fittest  vessels  of  grace  ;  they  will  certainly  be  en- 
lightened, and  have  the  mystery  of  Christ  revealed 
in  their  heart.  Matt.  xi.  25. 

There  was  an  hour  when  Christ  rejoic'd, 
And  spoke  his  joy  in  words  of  praise  ; 

*•  Father  I  thank  thee  ;  mighty  God, 

Lord  of  the  Earth,  and  heaven,  and  seas. 

I  thank  thy  sov'reign  power  and  love. 
That  crowns  my  doctrine  with  success  ; 

And  makes  the  babes  ia  knowledge,  learn 
The  heights,  and  breadths,  and  lengths  of  grace. 

Father,  'tis  thus,  because  thy  will 
Chose  and  ordain'd  it  should  be  so  ; 

'Tis  thy  delight  to  abuse  the  proud, 
And  lay  the  haughty  scorner  low." 


MAY  15.  143 

Take  heed  to  yourselves,  shunning  bad  companies 
and  occasions,  lest  at  any  time  your  hearts  he 
overcharged  with  surfeiting,  and  drunkenness^ 
and  the  cares  of  this  life;  and  so  that  day  come 
upon  you  unawares.  If  the  heart  must  not  be  so 
much  as  overcharged,  what  will  become  of  those 
on  that  day,  that  are  mighty  to  drink  wine,  and 
men  of  strength  to  mingle  strong  drink?  Watch 
ye  therefore,  and  pray  always.  Luke,  xxi.  34, 
36.  Be  ye  therefore  sober,  and  watch  unto  prayer. 
1  Pet.  iv.  7. 

Sober  and  watchful  we  must  be  even  against  the 
love  of  the  world  ;  since  the  heart  being  filled  with 
any  thing  that  is  vain,  is  unable  to  .pray  right  and 
enjoy  peace  ;  peace  being  disturbed  even  by  re 
serving,  much  more  by  striving  after  something  for 
the  flesh.  But  cleaving  to  Christ  alone,  ever  seek- 
ing to  relish  him  and  the  fullness  of  his  grace,  is  the 
best  means  to  secure  ourselves  from  worldliness, 
uneasiness,  and  sloth  of  spirit. 

Vain  man,  on  foolish  pleasures  bent, 
Prepares  for  his  own  punishment ; 
What  pains,  what  loathsome  maladies 
From  luxury  and  lust  arise. 

The  drunkard  feels  his  vitals  waste. 
Yet  drowns  his  health  to  please  his  taste  : 
Till  all  his  active  powers  are  lost. 
And  fainting  hfe  draws  near  the  dust. 

The  glutton  groans  and  loathes  to  eat. 
His  soul  abhors  delicious  meat : 
Nature  with  heavy  loads  oppress'd, 
Would  yield  to  death  to  be  releas'd. 


144  MAY  16. 

Thy  word  hate  I  hid  in  my  hearty  that  I  might  not 
sin  against  thee.  Establish  thy  word  unto  thy 
servant,  who  is  devoted  to  thy  love.  Then  shall  I 
not  be  ashamedf  when  I  have  respect  unto  all  thy 
commandments.  Therefore,  remember  the  word 
unto  thy  servant,  upon  which  thou  hast  caused  me 
to  hope.  I  shall  run  in  the  way  of  thy  command- 
ments, when  thou  shalt  enlarge  my  heart.  Psla. 
cxix.  11,  38,  and  ver.  6,  49,  32. 

Thus  gospel  comfort  powerfully  stirreth  up  to 
walk  according  to  the  law,  and  the  law  urges  ever- 
more^ to  lay  hold  on  and  make  right  use  of  the  gos- 
pel, as  not  to  abuse  it  to  security  ;  which  are  both 
very  needful.  For  whosoever  makes  void,  and  neg- 
lects the  lavv,  cannot  but  make  a  wrong  application 
of  the  gospel,  and  is  in  danger  of  either  being  hurri- 
ed into  libertinism,  following  the  bent  of  his  own 
imagination,  or  to  his  great  punishment  falls  under 
a  heavy  yoke  of  mere  human  invention.  May  the 
Lord  lead  and  keep  us  in  the  right  way, 

Laden  with  guilt,  and  full  of  fears, 

I'll  fly  to  thee,  my  Lord  ; 
And  not  a  glimpse  of  hope  appears, 

But  in  thy  written  word. 

This  is  the  Judge  that  ends  the  strife. 

Where  wit  and  reason  fail ; 
My  guide  to  everlasting  life, 

Through  all  this  gloomy  vale. 

O!  may  thy  counsels,  mighty  God, 

My  roving  feet  command  : 
Nor  I  forsake  the  happy  road, 

That  leads  to  thy  right  hand. 


MAY  17.  145 

Through  the  law  lam  dead  to  the  law,  that  I  might 
live  unto  God.  1  am  crucified  with  Christ,  never- 
theless I  live ;  yet  not  J,  hut  Christ  liveth  in  me^ 
and  the  life  which  I  now  live  in  thejiesh-,  I  live  hy 
the  faith  of  the  Son  of  God,  who  loved  me  and 
gave  himself  for  me.  Gal.  ii.  19. 

Christ  being  our  head,  in  whom  all  fulness  dwells, 
he  will  certainly  fill  all  his  members  with  life  and 
strength,  according  to  his  promise,  John,  xiv.  19.  I 
live,  and  ye  shall  hve,  also  ;  and  chap.  xvii.  3. 
*'  This  is  eternal  life,"  &:,c.  To  know  Christ,  and 
God  in  Christ  as  love,  is  true  light  and  hfe ;  he 
that  has  this,  has  enough.  O  the  excellency  of  the 
knowledge  of  Christ !  O  Lord,  teach  me  to  know 
thee  as  the  Bridegroom  of  my  soul,  that  the  law 
may  not  rush  into  my  conscience,  now  thy  bride- 
chamber,  and  condemn  me  any  more.  I  am  devoted 
to  none  but  thee.  Rom.  vii.  4.  Grant  therefore  that 
my  whole  heart  and  hfe,  all  my  words  and  actions, 
may  be  governed  only  by  a  living  faith  on  thee, 
that  thou  hast  loved  and  given  thyself  for  me. 

Come,  dearest  Lord,  descend  and  dwell, 

By  faith  and  love  in  every  breast : 
Then  shall  we  know,  and  taste,  and  feel 

The  joys  that  cannot  be  expressed. 
Come,  fill  our  hearts  with  inward  strength 

Make  our  enlarged  soul  possess, 
And  learn  the  height,  and  breadth,  and  length, 

Of  thy  unmeasurable  grace. 
Now  to  the  God  whose  power  can  do 

More  than  our  thoughts  and  wishes  know, 
Be  everlasting  honours  done 

By  all  the  church,  through  Christ  his  Son. 
13 


146  MAY  18. 

I  am  poor  and  needy,  and  my  heart  is  wounded  with^ 
in  me.  Psal.  cix.  22.  Divine  answer.  I  know  thy 
poverty,  but  thou  art  rich.  Rev.  ii.  9.  For  blessed 
are  the  poor  in  spirit,  for  theirs  is  the  kingdom  of 
heaven.  Matt.  v.  3.  The  meek  shall  eat  and  be 
satisfied ;  they  shall  praise  the  Lord  that  seek 
him :  your  heart  shall  live  for  ever.  Psal.  xxii.  27. 
The  Lord  healeth  the  broken  in  heart,  the  Lord 
lifts  up  the  meek.  Psal.  cxlvii.  3,  6.  A  bruised 
reed  shall  he  not  break,  and  smoking  fax  shall  he 
not  quench,  till  he  send  forth  judgment  unto  vic- 
tory. Matt.  xii.  20. 

Such  are  the  tender  mercies  of  Christ,  towards 
the  weakest  of  his  people,  that  he  supplies  them 
from  time  to  time,  with  all  proportionable  strength, 
till  at  last  they  are  able  to  gain  a  complete  victory. 
As  soon  therefore  as  we  are  sensible  of  our  poverty, 
or  miserable  condition,  and  are  truly  desirous  of 
grace  and  strength,  to  overcome  sin,  we  have  actu- 
ally some  grace  and  spiritual  life,  and  are  delivered 
already  from  the  jaws  of  hell ;  for  there  is  no  such 
feeling  in  dead  souls,  and  in  hell  there  is  only  a  de- 
sire to  be  delivered  from  the  punishment,  but  not 
from  sin  itself. 

Blest  are  the  humble  souls  that  see, 
Their  emptiness  and  poverty : 
Treasures  of  grace  to  them  are  given, 
And  crowns  of  joy  laid  up  in  heaven. 

Blest  are  the  men  with  broken  heart, 
Who  mourn,  for  sin,  with  inward  smart : 
The  blood  of  Christ  divinely  flows, 
A  healing^  balm  for  all  their  woei. 


MAY  H.  147 

lam  the  light  of  the  world,  he  thatfolloweth  me  shall 
not  walk  in  darkness,  but  shall  have  the  light  of 
life.  John,  viii.  1 2.  Therefore,  walk  while  ye  have 
the  light,  lest  darkness  come  upon  you,  for  he  that 
walks  in  darkness,  knows  not  whither  he  goes. 
Chap.  xii.  35. 

He  that  is  faithfuL  keeping  ever  close  to  Christ, 
and  his  light,  strictly  watching  and  obeying  the  mo- 
tions of  his  spirit,  will  be  evermore  tender  in  con- 
science, and  receive  so  much  more  light ;  conse- 
quently, he  will  be  from  time  to  time,  more  deeply 
rooted  in  repentance,  faith,  and  assurance,  so  as 
either  to  be  preserved  from  many  combats  and  dis- 
orders, or  at  least  be  carried  sooner  through  the 
same.  He  may  meet  with  dark  vallies,  (nature 
being  as  it  were,  a  great,  dark  abyss,  and  grace 
sometimes  as  a  small  span,)  yet  by  degrees  it  will 
blaze,  and  at  last  break  through,  and  enlighten  all 
our  darkness. 

Is  he  a  star  ?  he  breaks  the  night, 

Piercing  the  shades  with  dawning  light : 

I  know  his  glories  from  afar, 

I  know  the  bright,  the  morning  star. 

Is  he  a  sun  ?  his  beams  are  grace, 

His  course,  his  joys  and  righteousness  : 

Nations  rejoice  when  he  appears, 

To  chase  their  clouds  and  dry  their  tears. 

Nor  earth,  nor  seas,  nor  sun,  nor  stars, 

Nor  heaven  his  full  resemblance  bears  : 

His  beauties  we  can  never  trace, 

Till  we  behold  him  face  to  face.  * 

O  let  me  climb  those  higher  skies, 

Where  storms  and  darkness  never  rise! 

There  he  displays  his  powers  abroad, 

And  shines  and  reigns  the  incarnate  God. 


148  MAY  20. 

I  am  the  Lord  thy  God,  which  teaches  thee  to  profit, 
which  leadeth  thee  by  the  way  that  thou  shouldst 
go.  O  that  thou  hadst  hearkened  to  my  command- 
merits^  then  had  thy  peace  been  as  a  river,  and  thy 
righteousness  as  the  waves  of  the  sea.  Isa.  xlviii. 
17,  18.  Behold  I  stand  at  the  door  and  knock ; 
if  any  man  hear  my  voice  and  open  the  door-,  I 
will  come  in  to  him,  and  will  sup  with  him,  and  he 
with  me.  Rev.  iii.  20. 

How  often  and  how  variously  does  the  Lord, 
knock  at  the  door  of  our  hearts  ?  how  clearly  are 
his  commandments  held  forth  to  us  ?  but,  how  sel- 
dom are  we  inclined  to  give  him  the  hearing  ?  Very 
often  we  are  so  distracted,  that  we  can  hardly  hear 
his  voice,  from  the  noise  of  worldly  tilings  in  our 
senses  ;  and  we  are  not  at  home,  when  he  is  pleased 
to  take  up  his  abode  with  us.  Well,  even  now  he 
is  knocking  by  this.  O  let  us  open  the  door  for 
him,  directly,  since  he  desires  nothing  from  us  that 
might  be  grievous,  but  intends  to  make  our  heaits 
a  glorious  residence  and  banqueting  room  of  his 
love,  to  fill  it  with  heavenly  goods,  and  to  prepare 
and  give  every  thing  himself. 

I'll  bring  him  to  my  mother's  home, 
Nor  does  my  Lord  refuse  to  come 
To  Zion's  sacred  chambers,  where 
My  soul  first  drew  the  vital  air. 
He  gives  me  there  his  bleeding  heart, 
Pierc'd  for  my  sake,  with  deadly  smart : 
I  give  my  soul  to  him,  and  there 
Our  loves  their  mutual  tokens  share. 
I  charge  ye  all,  ye  earthly  toys. 
Approach  not  to  disturb  my  joys  ; 
Nor  sin,  nor  hell,  come  near  my  heart 
Nor  cause  my  Saviour  to  depart. 


MAY  21.  149 

/  am  the  true  vine,  and  my  Father  is  the  husband- 
man ;  every  branch  in  me  that  beareth  not  fruit, 
he  takes  away ;  and  every  branch  that  beareth 
fruity  he  purges  it,  that  it  may  bring  forth  mere 
fruit.  Abide  in  me  and  I  in  you ;  he  that  abides 
in  me-,  and  I  in  him,  the  same  brings  forth  much 
fruit.  John,  xv.  1,6. 

O  Lord,  I  trust  that  this  word  will  have  its  ac- 
complishment in  me  also ;  though  as  yet  I  have 
great  reason  to  be  humbled  on  account  of  my  bar- 
renness. Grant,  therefore,  that  I  may  always  abide 
in  thee,  faithfully  and  quietly;  since  there  is  every 
thing  in  thy  power,  and  nothing  can  be  got  and 
done  by  our  own  stren^fth;  but  as  it  is  thy  will,  and 
it  tends  both  to  the  glory  of  thy  Father,  and  thine 
own,  1  depend  upon  being  replenished  in  due  sea- 
son with  fruits  of  righteousness.  0  suffer  nothing  in 
me,  which  is  to  the  dishonour  of  thy  name,  and  which 
may  be  offensive  to  me  and  to  others.  But  whatever 
thou  thinkest  as  yet  fit  for  me  to  suffer,  let  it  work 
for  my  real  good. 

How  can  I  sufficiently  adore  the  patience  of  the 
Lord  my  gracious  husbandman,  who  still  bears  with 
me,  the  weakest  of  all  his  branches.  He  has  not  cut 
me  off  yet,  but  still  addresses  me  to  bring  forth  more 
fruit,  though  as  yet  I  hardly  yield  him  one  good, 
but  a  multitude  of  wild  grapes.  Why  then  shouldst 
thou  grumble,  O  my  heart,  at  the  application  of 
his  pruning  knife  ?  It  is  really  for  thy  good.  He  is 
angry  only  with  the  degenerate,  unfruitful  branches. 
The  more  these  are  purged  the  more  fruit  thou  shalt 
bring  forth. 


13* 


150  MAY  22. 

I  am  glorified  in  them.  I  have  declared  unto  them 
thy  name,  and  tvill  declare  it,  that  the  love  where- 
with thou  hast  loved  me  may  be  in  them,  and  I  in 
them :  I  in  them,  and  thou  in  me,  that  I  may  be 
made  perfect  in  one.  John,  xvii.  10,  23,  26. 

O  glorious  promise !  how  could  he  love  us  more  ? 
What  blessed  and  intimate  union  is  this?  O  for 
such  a  faith  that  could  always  truly  believe  it ! 
Christ  is  the  vine,  believers  are  the  branches :  he 
the  Bridegroom,  we  the  bride ;  he  the  head,  we 
the  members  of  his  body,  of  his  very  flesh  and  very 
bones,  and  consequently  one  body  with  him.  And 
who  ever  hated  his  own  flesh  ?  So  in  loving  and 
cherishing  us,  he  loves  himself  Eph.  v.  28,  29. 
Whenever  he  shall  cease  to  love  himself,  then,  and 
no  sooner,  shall  he  cease  to  love  and  cherish  us 
also.  It  is  his  own  delight  to  do  us  good,  more  than 
the  mother  that  suckles  her  child. 

Lord,  what  a  heaven  of  saving  grace 
Shines  through  the  beauties  of  thy  face, 
And  light  our  passions  to  a  flame ! 
Lord,  how  we  love  thy  charming  name  J 

When  can  I  say,  my  God  is  mine, 
When  I  can  see  thy  glories  shine  : 
I  tread  the  World  beneath  my  feet, 
And  all  that  earth  calls  good  or  great. 

Send  comforts  down  from  thy  right  hand, 
While  we  pass  through  this  barren  land ; 
And  in  thy  temple  let  us  see 
A  glimpse  of  love,  a  glimpse  of  thee. 


MAY  23.  151 

lam  weary  with  groaning.  Psal.  vi.  6.  Divine  an- 
swer. He  gives  'power  to  the  faint,  and  to  them 
that  have  no  might  he  increaseth  strength.  Isa.  xl. 
29.  I  have  satisfied  the  weary  soul,  and  I  have 
replenished  every  sorrowful  soul.  Jer.  xxxi.  25. 
Therefore,  Come  unto  me  all  ye  that  labour,  and 
are  heavy  laden,  and  I  will  give  you  rest.  Take 
my  yoke  upon  you  and  learn  of  me,  for  I  am  meek 
and  lowly  in  heart,  and  ye  shall  find  rest  to  your 
souls,  for  my  yoke  is  easy,  and  my  burden  is  light. 
Matt.  xi.  28,  30. 

Here  Christ  is  commending  his  meekness,  not  so 
much  as  a  pattern  to  be  imitated,  and  does  not  prop- 
erly promise  his  rest  and  comforts  for  our  labour 
and  humility,  but  to  the  coming  and  believing  in 
him,  to  encourage  the  heavy  laden  souls  not  to  be 
frightened,  but  draw  near  to  him  with  confidence 
and  boldness  ;  he  says  I  am  not  so  rough  and  proud 
as  Pharisees  and  other  men  generally  are  towards 
offenders  ;  but  meek,  lowly  in  heart,  full  of  com- 
passion, and  wilHng  to  receive,  to  forgive,  and  com- 
fort them.  Come,  therefore,  to  him,  O  sinner,  with 
all  thy  loads  of  sin  and  misery,  he  will  in  no  wise 
cast  thee  out,  but  receive  thee  gladly. 

Blest  is  the  man  whose  shoulders  take 
My  yoke  and  bear  it  with  delight. 

My  yoke  is  easy  to  his  neck. 

My  grace  shall  make  the  burden  light. 

Jesus,  we  come  at  thy  command, 

With  faith,  and  hope,  and  humble  zeal 

Resign  our  spirits  to  thy  hand. 
To  mould  and  guide  us  at  thy  will. 


152  MAY  Zr. 

I  have  gone  astray  like  a  lost  sheep:  seek  thy  servant. 

Psal.  cxix.  176.  God's  answer.  Behold  I,  even  L 
will  both  search  my  sheep  and  seek  them  out;  I  will 
seek  that  which  was  lost,  bring  again  that  which 
was  driven  away,  and  ivill  bind  vp  that  which  was 
broken,  and  will  strengthen  that  which  was  sick. 
Ezek.  xxxi  V.  11,  16.  He  shall  feed  hisjlock  like  a 
shepherd ;  he  shall  gather  the  lambs  with  his  arms 
and  carry  them  in  his  bosom^  S^c.  Isa.  xl.  11. 

He  that  is  wise  in  his  own  conceit,  as  many  of 
our  philosophers,  does  not  pray  hke  David  in  this 
place  ;  therefore  he  continues,  with  all  his  proud 
wisdom,  in  his  natural  errors  and  foolishness.  But 
as  thou  hast  given  me,  O  thou  good  Shepherd,  to 
know  and  understand  my  lost  and  helpless  condi- 
tion ;  and  I  cannot  find  or  advise  myself  in  any 
thing.  Like  a  sheep  that  is  gone  astray,  I  beseech 
thee  to  seek,  heal,  lead,  feed,  carry  and  strengthen 
me  also,  as  I  stand  in  need  of,  and  seems  good  to 
thee,  that  I  may  be  able  to  say  with  David,  '*  The 
Lord  is  my  shepherd,  I  shall  not  want." 

My  shepherd,  my  supply,  my  need, 

Jehovah  is  his  name ; 
In  pastures  fresh  he  makes  me  feed, 

Beside  the  living  stream. 

He  brings  my  wand'ring  spirit  back, 

When  I  forsake  his  ways. 
And  leads  me,  for  his  mercies'  sake, 

In  paths  of  truth  and  grace. 

The  sure  provisions  of  my  God, 

Attend  me  all  my  days ; 
O  may  thy  house  be  mine  abode, 

And  all  my  work  be  praise. 


MAY  25.  153 

I  am  not  worthy  the  least  of  all  thy  mercies, 
and  of  all  thy  truth  which  thou  hast  showed 
unto  thy  servant.  Gen.  xxxii.  10.  Who  am 
/,  O  Lord  God!  and  what  is  my  house,  that 
thou  hast  brought  me  hither,  2  Sam.  vii. 

A  soul  truly  humbled  through  afflictions,  highly 
esteems  the  least  favour,  and  judges  itself  utterly 
unworthy  of  it,  looking  upon  every  thing  as  a  free 
gift,  only  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake.  Now,  O  my  dear 
Father!  it  is  true,  in  myself  I  deserve  none,  no, 
not  the  least  of  thy  mercies  ;  but  as  thou  hast 
thought  me  more  worthy,  and  given  me  thine  own 
son,  who  hath  punjhased  all  again,  and  paid  a  great 
price  for  them  ;  yet  I  firmly  believe,  that  goodness 
and  mercy  will  follow  me  all  the  days  of  my  life. 

Now  to  the  power  of  God  supreme, 

Be  everlasting  honours  given  ; 
He  saves  from  hell,  (we  bless  his  name) 

He  calls  our  wand'ring  feet  to  heav'n. 

Not  for  our  duties  or  deserts. 

But  of  his  own  abounding  grace, 

He  works  salvation  in  our  hearts. 
And  forms  a  people  for  his  praise. 

'Twas  his  own  purpose  that  begun, 
To  rescue  rebels  doom'd  to  die  : 

He  gave  us  grace  in  Christ  his  Son, 
Before  he  spread  the  starry  sky. 

Jesus  the  Lord  appears  at  last, 

And  makes  his  Father's  counsels  known 

Declares  the  great  transactions  past, 
And  brings  immortal  blessings  down. 


164  MAY  26. 

/  beseech  you,  therefore,  brethren,  by  the  mercies  of 
God,that  you  present  your  bodies  a  living  sacrifice, 
holy,  acceptable  unto  God,  which  is  your  reasona- 
ble service.  And  be  not  conformed  to  this  world; 
but  be  ye  transformed  by  the  renewing  of  your 
mind,  that  ye  may  prove  what  is  that  good,  and  ac- 
ceptable, and  perfect  will  of  God.  Rom.  xii.  1 ,  2. 

This,  in  conjunction  with  the  word  of  God,  and 
serious  prayers,  is  the  best  means  to  know  the  will 
of  God.  The  neglecting  of  it,  and  using  other 
means,  is  tempting  God,  and  exposing  ourselves  to 
the  temptations  and  siftings  of  the  wicked  one.  We 
may  think  ourselves,  to  be  divinely  convinced  by 
faith,  of  the  will  of  God,  though  we  follow  our  own 
imaginations,  and  spoil  the  best  of  our  actions. 
Self-will  generally  takes  quick  resolutions,  and  has 
a  great  deal  of  assurance  ;  whereas,  God  very  often 
leads  his  people  blindly,  and  takes  methods  quite 
different  from  ours.  "  Who  therefore  believes,  shall 
not  make  haste."  Zsa.  xxviii.  16.  But  be  very  care- 
ful that  he  do  not  mistake  self-will  and  plausible  re- 
presentations, for  divine  convictions  and  assurance 
of  faith;  always  strictly  examining  himself  first, 
whether  his  body,  soul,  and  affections,  are  entirely 
offered  up  to  the  good-will  and  pleasure  of  God  ;  for 
the  only  true  service  which  God  delights  in,  is  the 
sacrificing  our  whole  selves  to  him  at  all  times ;  and 
not  only  at  church,  but  in  all  other  places,  that  we 
do  not  conform  to  the  world,  but  be  daily  transfor- 
med by  the  renewing  of  our  minds. 

Lord,  search  my  thoughts  and  try  my  way 

And  make  my  soul  sincere ; 
Then  shall  I  stand  before  thy  face, 

And  find  acceptance  there. 


MAY  26.  165 

/  miill  greatly  rejoice  in  the  Lord ;  my  soul  shall  he 
joyful  in  my  God  .for  he  has  clothed  me  in  the  gar- 
ments of  salvation,  he  has  covered  me  with  the  robe 
of  righteousness,  as  a  bridegroom  decketh  himself 
with  ornaments,  and  as  a  bride  adorns  herself 
with  jewels.  Isa.  Ixi.  10. 

In  vain  dost  thou  dress  up  and  adorn  thyself,  O 
my  soul,  before  thou  approachest  Christ.  To  hini 
thou  must  come,  filthy,  naked,  and  miserable  as 
thou  art ;  he  will  clothe  and  adorn  thee  himself,  and 
in  this  ornament  alone  thou  shalt  rejoice.  For  the 
very  best  of  our  robes  and  performances,  are  not 
without  spots,  but  still  want  to  be  washed  in  the 
blood  of  Christ  and  covered  with  this  ornament. 
Rev.  vii.  14.  This,  and  this  alone  is  the  way  to 
enjoy  and  maintain  a  true  peace.  This  will  enable 
us  to  rejoice  that  our  nam.es  are  written  in  heaven. 
Awake  my  heart,  arise  my  tongue, 

Prepare  a  tuneful  voice  : 
In  God.  the  life  of  all  my  joys, 

Aloud  will  I  rejoice. 
'Tis  he  adorn'd  my  naked  soul, 

And  made  salvation  mine  ; 
Upon  a  poor  polluted  worm 

He  makes  his  graces  shine. 
The  spirit  wrought  my  faith  and  love, 

And  hope,  and  every  grace  ; 
But  Jesus  spent  his  life  to  work 

The  robe  of  righteousness. 
Strangely  my  soul  art  thou  arrayed 

By  the  great  sacred  Three  ! 
In  sweetest  harmony  of  praise 
Let  all  the  powers  agree. 


156  MAY  28. 

I  have  sinned  against  the  Lord.  Divine  answer. 
The  Lord  also  has  put  away  thy  sin,  thou  shalt 
not  die.  2  Sam.  xii.  13.  For  if  we  would  judge 
ourselves,  we  should  not  he  judged,   1  Cor.  xi.  3 1 . 

He  that  with  unfeigned  repentance  accuses  and 
judges  himself,  accounting  his  own  righteousness 
and  best  doings,  as  filthy  rags,  will  soon  receive 
grace,  pardon,  and  remission  of  all  his  sins  at  once, 
though  chastisement  may  follow  ;  for  grace  is  not 
divided  as  gifts  are.  God,  through  Christ,  receives 
the  whole  person  of  a  penitent  sinner  into  his 
favour,  forgiving  both  original  and  actual  sins  in 
one  instant ;  so  that  either  none  or  all  are  for- 
given ;  not  one,  even  the  least,  is  forgiven,  only 
on  account  of  our  repentance  (as  some  vainly  ima- 
gine) without  the  blood  of  Christ ;  but  by  this,  all, 
even  the  most  heinous,  are  taken  away  ;  for  the 
blood  of  Christ  cleanses  us  from  all  sins.  1  John,  i.  7. 

Show  pity.  Lord,  O  Lord  forgive  ; 
Let  a  repenting  sinner  live  ; 
Are  not  thy  mercies  large  and  free ! 
May  not  a  sinner  trust  in  thee  ? 
My  lips  with  shame  my  sins  confess, 
Against  thy  law,  against  thy  grace  : 
Lord,  should  thy  judgment  grow  severe, 
I  am  condemned,  but  thou  art  clear. 
Should  sudden  vengeance  seize  my  breathy 
I  must  pronounce  thee  just  in  death  ; 
And  if  my  soul  were  sent  to  hell, 
Thy  righteous  law  approves  it  well. 
My  crimes  are  great,  but  not  surpass 
The  power  and  glory  of  thy  grace  ; 
Great  God,  thy  nature  has  no  bound. 
So  let  thy  pard'ning  love  be  foundo. 


MAY  29.  167 

/  have  somewhat  against  thee^  because  thou  hast 
left  thy  first  love.  Rev.  ii.  4. 

This  comforts  me,  0  my  dear  father  !  that  thou 
hast  shown  me  thy  mercy,  and  lovest  me  in  Christ ; 
but  this  grieves  me  alsoi  that  my  love  is  still  so 
weak  towards  thee.  O  supply  these  my  great  de- 
fects, and  whatever  thou  suffereth  to  remain,  lay  it 
not  to  my  charge,  and  let  it  not  disturb  my  filial 
confidence ;  rather  let  it  serve  that  I  trust  so  much 
more  upon  Christ  alone,  and  that  I  may  be  stirred 
up  to  more  earnest  prayers ;  then  there  is  no  doubt 
but  my  great  wants,  shall  in  due  time,  be  all  filled 
up  with  a  real  constant  love. 

Why  is  my  heart  so  far  from  thee. 

My  God,  my  chief  delight  ? 
Why  are  my  thoughts  no  more  by  day 

With  thee,  no  more  by  night  ? 

Why  should  my  foolish  passions  rove? 

Where  can  such  sweetness  be. 
As  I  have  tasted  in  thy  love, 

As  I  have  found  in  thee  ? 

Trifles  of  nature  or  of  art 

With  fair  deceitful  charms, 
Intrude  into  my  thoughtless  heart. 

And  thrust  me  from  thy  arms. 

Wretch  that  I  am,  to  wander  thus 

In  chase  of  false  delight ! 
Let  me  be  fastened  to  thy  cross, 

Rather  than  lose  thy  sight. 


14 


158  MAY  30. 

I  wait  for  the  Lord,  my  soul  doth  wait.  PsaK  cxxx* 
5.  God's  answer.  They  that  wait  upon  the  Lord 
shall  renew  their  strength,  they  shall  mount  up 
with  win2;s  like  eagles,  they  shall  run  and  not  be 
weary,  and  they  shall  walk  and  not  faint.  Isa.  xiv» 
31.  For  the  Lord  is  good  unlo  them,  that  wait  for 
Mm,  to  the  soul  that- seeks  him.  Lament,  iii.  25. 

When  we  have  prayed,  we  must  remember  to 
wait  also  ;  for  it  is  not  only  an  express  command, 
but  very  acceptable  to  the  Lord.  The  more  we 
wait,  and  are  instant  in  prayer,  so  much  more  will 
he  give  :  nay,  he  always  hears  and  grants  our  pe- 
titions directly,  and  lays  them  up  for  his  children  ; 
but  that  we  may  not  abuse  them,  he  gives  the  en- 
joyment only  when  it  is  most  needfid.  Therefore 
we  may  confidently  say,  such  and  such  gifts  1  have, 
since  1  have  prayed  for  them  :  they  are  actually 
laid  up  for  me,  and  the  use  and  benefit  thereof,  I 
shall  reap  in  due  season,  especially  in  death  and  all 
eternity. 

My  spirit  looks  to  God  alone  ; 
My  rock  and  refuge  in  his  throne  : 
In  all  my  fears,  in  all  my  straits, 
My  soul  on  his  salvation  waits. 

Trust  him,  ye  saints,  in  all  your  ways, 
Pour  out  your  hearts  before  his  face  ; 
When  helpers  fail,  and  foes  invade, 
God  is  our  all-sufflcient  aid. 


For  Sov'reign  Power  reigns  not  alone 
Grace  is  a  partner  of  his  throne  : 
Thy  grace  and  justice  mighty  Lord, 
Shall  well  divide  our  last  reward. 


MAY  31.  169 

In  the  multitude  of  my  thoughts  within  me,  thy 
comforts  delights  my  souL  Psal.  xciv.  19.  See 
also  2  Cor.  i.  3—5. 

A  man  without  afflictions,  seeks  his  trust,  and 
seeks  his  comPjrts  chiefly  in  temporal  things  ;  he  is 
full  of  earthly  desires,  and  the  true  image  of  vani- 
ty ;  whereas  we  can  never  taste  the  sweet  comforts 
of  the  word  of  God,  so  well,  as  under  the  burden 
of  the  cross.  There  our  spirits  sometimes  enjoy 
more  rest  and  joy  than  if  we  were  without  it,  for 
then  that  word  is  fulfilled  which  Christ  says,  Matt, 
xi.  30.  <'  my  yoke  is  easy  and  my  burden  is  light." 
Thus  our  hearts  are  set  against  the  world,  recon- 
ciled to  heavenly  things,  and  easily  disunited  from 
many  idols,  which  were  impossible  to  deny  and 
forsake  before.  Well  then,  may  we  bear  this  salu- 
tary burden,  which  will  certainly  end,  and  who 
knows  how  soon,  in  eternal  glory  and  rest.  And 
as  the  Lord  will  also  give  patience  and  strength 
suflficient  for  the  day,  so  as  to  be  never  tempted 
above  measure,  there  is  abundant  reason  again  tQ 
say,  that  his  burden  is  light  indeed. 

'Tis  good  for  me  to  wear  the  yoke, 
For  pride  is  apt  to  rise  and  swell  : 

'Tis  good  to  bear  my  father's  stroke, 
That  I  may  learn  his  statutes  well. 

Father,  I  bless  thy  gentle  hand  ; 

How  kind  is  thy  chastising  rod 
That  forced  my  conscience  to  a  stand, 

And  brought  my  waiid'ring  soul  to  God. 


160  JUNE  1. 

/  determined  not  to  know  any  thing  among  youy  save 
Jesus  Christ  and  him  crucified.  1  Cor.  ii.  2,  The 
love  of  God  is  most  excellent  wisdom,  Eccles.i.  13. 
Thefearofthe  Lord  is  the  beginning  of  wisdom, 
4*^.  Psal.  cxi.  10.  The  wisdom  that  is  from  above 
is  first  pure,  then  peaceable,  gentle,  arid  easy  to  be 
intreated,  full  of  mercy,  and  good  fruity  without 
partiality  and  without  hypocrisy.  James,  iii.  1 7. 
Knowledge puffeth  up,  but  charity  edifies,  1  Cor. 
viii.  1. 

Christ  crucified,  and  he  alone  is  the  power  and 
wisdom  of  God  ;  him  all  Christians,  and  especially 
divines,  should  make  their  particular  practice  to 
study  well.  Were  our  faith  builded  on  human 
wisdom,  then  surely  carnal  philosophers  would  be 
the  greatest  believers  ;  whereas  they  are  sometimes 
the  worst  infidels,  or  at  best  the  most  silly  and 
faithless  people  in  times  of  distress.  And  besides, 
their  being  pufied  up  is  another  evidence  that  they 
have  not  the  true  wisdom ;  for  the  wisdom  from 
above  is  only  with  the  lowly,  and  babes,  who  pray  for 
it  earnestly.  Prov.  xi.  2.  Matt.  ix.  25.  What  would 
all  knowledge  avail  us,  then,  without  the  knowledge 
of  Christ  ?  one  spark  of  pure  love  yields  more  power 
than  all  the  stores  of  empty  human  learning.  May 
the  Lord  Jesus  shed  his  love  abroad  into  my  heart ; 
him  have  I  determined  only  to  know  ;  his  love  at  the 
cross  I  account  for  my  greatest  wisdom  and  glory. 

To  fear  his  power,  to  trust  his  grace 

Is  our  divinest  skill. 
And  he's  the  wisest  of  our  race 

That  best  obeys  his  will. 


JUNE  2.  161 

/  will  not  let  thee  go  except  thou  bless  me.  Gen. 
xxxii.  12.  Forsake  me  nut,  O  Lord,  O  my  God. 
Psal.  xxxviii.  22.  Divine  answer.  Behold  I  am 
with  thee,  a,nd  will  keep  thee  in  all  places  whither 
thou  guest,  for  I  Will  not  have  thte  until  I  have 
done  that  which  I  have  spoken  to  thee  of.  Gen. 
xxviii.  15.  /  hiow  thee  by  name,  and  thou  hast  al- 
so found  grace  in  my  sight.  Ex.  xxxiii.  12.  J  will 
never  leave  thee  norjorsake  thee.  Heb.  xiii.  5. 

God  will  have  me  to  be  faithful,  and  should  not 
he  be  so  himself?  am  I  to  trust  in  his  word  ;  then 
surely  he  will  not  forsake  me,  but  be  as  good  as  his 
word.  Heaven  and  earth  must  pass  away,  but 
his  word  will  not  :  He  is  ever  faithful.  If  I  do  not 
believe  this,  I  beheve  no  God  at  all :  but  if  I  truly 
believe  him  to  be  faithful,  I  believe  enough.  This 
is  what  he  only  desires,  and  if  I  really  do,  my  faith 
will  not  be  moved  even  in  the  hottest  trials;  the 
word  will  hold  me  up,  though  1  receive  it  even 
in  weakness. 

Begin,  my  tongue  some  heav'nly  theme, 
And  speak  some  boundless  thing, 

The  mighty  works  or  mightier  name 
Of  our  eternal  King. 

Proclaim  salvation  from  the  Lord 

For  wretched  dying  men  ; 
His  hand  has  writ  the  sacred  word 

With  an  immortal  pen. 

Engrav'd,  as  in  eternal  brass, 

The  mighty  promise  shines  ; 
Nor  can  the  powers  of  darkness  'rase 

Those  everlasting  lines. 

14* 


162  JUNE  3. 

/  say  unto  you,  that  every  idle  word  that  men  shall 
speak,  they  shall  give  account  thereof  in  the  day  of 
judgment.  Matt.  xii.  36.  See  also  Eph.  iv.  29. 
V.  4. 

Here  all  corrupt  communication,  jesting,  foolish 
talking,  or  whatever  is  not  convenient,  and  good  to 
the  use  of  edifying,  is  plainly  forbidden,  But  who 
truly  believes  the  report  and  the  truth  of  these  aw- 
ful words  ?  Surely  the  world  does  not  believe  them 
at  all  ?  This  is  quite  plain,  from  that  very  com- 
mon and  shocking  practice  and  custom  of  judging, 
lying,  swearing,  jesting,  and  talking  all  manner  of 
filthiness,  yea,  even  religious  people  very  often  do 
not  believe  and  consider  them  enough.  How  many 
heedless,  slanderous,  idle,  and  unprofitable  words, 
are  sometimes  spoken  by  these !  be  therefore  care- 
ful, 0  my  reader,  to  weigh  every  word,  and  to  make 
light  of  none,  for  each  will  increase  thine  account. 
Whenever  you  are  going  to  speak,  let  the  question 
be  first.  Is  it  needfiil  to  speak  ?  does  it  tend  to  the 
glory  of  God  ?  will  it  profit  me  or  others  ?  O  Lord* 
grant  that  never  an  idle  word  may  drop  from  my 
lips.  Whenever  I  am  to  converse  with  others,  give 
me  grace  to  converse  with  thee  by  secret  prayers. 
In  all  companies,  let  thy  presence  be  before  mine 
eyes,  always  looking  upon  thee,  as  the  chief  person 
in  the  place,  and  receiving  direction,  when  and 
what  I  am  to  speak.  May  thy  good  spirit  always 
teach  me  and  sanctify  all  my  thoughts  and  words. 

Thus  I  resolve  before  the  Lord, 

Now  will  I  watch  my  tongue, 
Lest  I  let  slip  one  sinful  word, 

Or  do  my  neighbour  wrong. 


JUNE  4.  163 

I  will  declare  mine  iniquity:  I  will  he  sorry  for  my 
sin.  I  acknowledge  my  transgressions,  and  my 
sin  is  ever  before  me.  Psal.  xxxviii.  Psal.  li.  5. 
Divine  answer.  He  has  not  dealt  with  us  after 
our  sins,  nor  rewarded  us  according  to  our  iniqui- 
ties ;  for  as  the  heaven  is  high  above  the  earth,  so 
great  is  his  mercy  towards  them  that  fear  him. 
As  far  as  the  east  is  from  the  west,  so  far  hath  he 
removed  our  transgressions  from  us.  Like  as  a 
father  pi tieth  his  children,  so  the  Lordpitieth  them 
that  fear  him.  Psal.  ciii.  10 — 13. 

As  njy  sins  are  ever  before  me,  so  the  ransom  of 
my  Mediator  is  ever  before  God  and  me  also.  God 
having  dealt  already  with  Christ  my  surety  for  my 
sins,  he  cannot  deal  for  them  with  me  again  :  for 
he  cannot  take  double  payment,  and  punish  them 
twice  ;  not  only  his  mercy,  but  even  his  justice  re- 
quires him  to  save  me,  when  I  lay  hold  on  the 
merits  and  the  most  perfect  atonements  of  his  dear 
Son,  my  Hedeemer.  Thus  all  my  sins  and  punish- 
ments are  taken  away  for  ever,  my  conscience  is 
perfectly  purged,  and  by  faith  I  am  able  to  answer 
all  the  charges  of  the  law.  1  John,  i.  9.  Heb.ix.  14. 
Chap.  X.  2,  22. 

High  as  the  heavens  are  raised 
''^  ^  Above  the  ground  we  tread, 
So  far  the  riches  of  his  grace 
Our  highest  thoughts  exceed. 

His  power  subdues  our  sins. 

And  his  forgiving  love. 
Far  as  the  east  is  from  the  west, 

Doth  all  our  guilt  remove. 


164  JUNE  6. 

By  night  on  my  bed  I  sought  him  whom  my  soul 
loveth.  Cant.  iii.  1. 

Many  are  seeking  Christ  who  have  him  already, 
though  he  hides  himself;  and  many  imagine  they 
have  him,  who  have  him  not ;  for  such  as  have  him 
only  in  their  thoughts,  and  in  their  mouth,  have  him 
not  in  their  heart.  O  my  dear  Saviour,  let  me  al- 
ways remember  and  firmly  believe  that  thy  Father 
loves  me  as  he  loves  thee,  and  that  thou  lovest  me 
also  as  thy  very  spouse  and  a  member  of  thy  body^ 
Happy  would  that  be  for  me,  then  I  could  love 
thee  again  ;  and  we  would  delight  in  one  another 
reciprocally,  above  all  creatures. 

Jesus,  my  portion,  and  my  love, 

My  everlasting  All, 
I've  none  but  thee  in  heaven  above, 

Or  on  this  earthly  ball. 

How  vain  a  toy  is  glitt'ring  wealth, 

If  once  con)pared  to  thee  ? 
Or  what's  my  safety,  or  my  health, 

Or  all  my  friends  to  me  ? 

Let  others  stretch  their  arms  like  seas, 

And  grasp  in  all  the  shore, 
Grant  me  the  visits  of  thy  face. 

And  I  desire  no  more. 

For  whilst  upon  my  restless  bed 

Amongst  the  shades  I  roll, 
If  my  Redeemer  shows  his  head, 

'Tis  morning  with  my  soul. 


JUNE  6.  165 

I  know  also,  my  God,  that  thou  triest  the  heart,  and 
hast  pleasure  in  uprightness,  1  Chron.  xxix.  17. 
He  is  a  buckler  to  them  that  walk  uprightly.  Prov. 
xi.  8.    The  Lord  looks  on  tlie  heart.  1  Sam.  xvi.  7. 

Since  God  cannot  be  deceived  with  a  mere  out- 
ward form,  though  ever  so  fine,  it  is  an  infallible 
proof  of  a  sincere,  real  conversion,  if  a  man  has  re- 
formed only  the  grosser  sins  of  hi?  former  life,  much 
less  if  he  only  abstains  from  such  things  which  by 
nature  he  is  not  so  much  inclined  to:  but  if  our 
hearts  are  changed,  and  especially  in  those  things 
we  have  the  strongest  propensity  to,  this  is  an  in- 
faUible  evidence  of  a  true  conversion.  For  these 
inward  capital  enemies,  the  Lord,  and  all  his  up- 
right followers  attack  most,  before  all  the  rest. 
But  if  thou  wouldst  give  over  that  which  is  dear- 
est to  thee,  thou  must  know  and  believe  first,  that 
Christ  loves  thee.  These  thoughts  we  must  prose- 
cute, though  all  other  things  should  be  forgotten. 

Mistaken  souls !  that  dream  of  heaven, 

And  make  their  empty  boast 
Of  inward  joys  and  sins  forgiven, 

While  they  are  slaves  to  lust. 

Vain  are  our  fancies,  airy  flights, 

If  faith  be  cold  and  dead  : 
None  but  a  living  power  unites 

To  Christ  the  living  head. 

'Tis  faith  that  changes  all  the  heart, 

'Tis  faith  that  works  by  love, 
That  bids  all  sinful  joys  depart, 

And  lifls  the  thoughts  above. 


166  JUNE  7. 

I  will  hedge  up  the  way  with  thorns,  and  make  a 
wall  that  she  shall  not  find  her  paths  ;  and  she 
shall  folloio  after  her  lovers,  hut  she  shall  not 
overtake  therii,  and  she  shall  seek  them  and  not 
find  them;  then  shall  she  say,  I  will  gJ  and  re- 
turn  unto  my  first  husband,  for  then  was  it  bet^- 
ter  with  me->  than  now.  Hos.  ii.  6,  7. 

As  it  is  only  with  thee,  0  my  dear  Saviour,  that. 
I  can  be  happy,  I  would  never  leave  thee  any  more^.. 
and  that  I  may  not  give  thee  the  slip  unawares,, 
even  under  good  pretences,  I  desire  to  have  my  way 
well  hedged  up,  and  be  encompassed  every  where 
with  thorns.  Let  me  quickly  discover  and  crucify 
every  thing  which  can  in  the  least  disturb  me  in  the 
enjoyment  of  thy  love,  that  I  may  always  closely 
walk  with  thee  alone,  and  never  step  one  inch  out 
of  thy  way,  for  fear  of  running  myself  into  the 
thorns,  and  brifiging  unnecessary  sufferings  upon 
me  though  I  do  not  mean  to  avoid  the  cross  of  Christ 
in  other  respects,  but  would  willingly  submit  to  any 
sufferings,  which  are  never  without  good  fruit. 

Glory  be  to  thee,  O  my  blessed  Saviour,  that 
thou  hast  not  given  me  up  yet,  and  suffered  me  to 
run  into  destruction,  in  my  own  ways.  O  be  pleased 
to  restrain  me  evermore,  and  whenever  I  am  in  dan- 
ger to  slide  out  into  the  broad  way,  grant  that  I  may 
not  find  any  rest  till  I  am  brought  back  again,  should 
it  even  be  by  means  of  the  pricking  thorns  of  afflic- 
tion. 

I  know  thy  judgments,  Lord,  are  right> 
Though  they  may  seem  severe ; 

The  sharpest  suff'rings  I  endure 
Flow  from  thy  faithful  care. 


JUNE  8.  167 

/  mill  make  tJiee  an  eternal  excellency,  a  joy  of  many 
generations.  Thy  sun  shall  no  more  go  down,  nei- 
ther shall  thy  moon  withdraw  itself;  for  the  Lord 
shall  be  thine  everlasting  light,  and  the  days  of  thy 
mourning  shall  be  ended.  'I  'hy  people  also  shall  be 
all,  righteous,  they  shall  inherit  the  land  for  every 
the  branch  of  my  planting,  the  works  of  my  hands 
shall  be  glorified.  Isa.  Ix  15,  20,  21.  I  wid  direct 
their  work  in  truth,  and  will  make  an  everlasting 
covenant  with  them.  Chap.  Ixi.  8.  Thou  shaltbe 
a  crown  of  glory  in  the  hand  of  the  Lord,  and  a 
royal  diadem  in  the  hand  of  thy  God !  and  as  the 
bridegroom  rejoiceth  over  the  bride,  so  shall  thy 
God  rejoice  over  thee.  Isa.  Ixii.  3,  5.  See  also, 
Prov.  iv.  9.  Eccles.  xv.  2. 

O  my  dear  Saviour  and  Bridegroom,  how  could 
it  be  possible  for  thee  to  take  delight  in  such  a  sinful 
worm  as  I,  if  it  was  not  entirely  for  the  sake  of  thy 
gracious  beauties,  garment,  and  ornaments.  But 
since  it  is  thy  pleasure  to  rejoice  in  thine  own, 
works,  what  can  I  desire  more  agreeable  to  thy 
will,  than  the  fulfilling  of  these  engagements.  Let 
me  prosper  evermore  by  the  plantings  of  thy  hand, 
that  my  works  being  done  in  thee,  may  glorify  thy 
wondrous  grace,  and  my  life  abound  evermore 
with  fruits  meet  for  eternity. 

Kind  is  the  speech  of  Christ  our  Lord, 
Affection  sounds  in  every  word  : 
What  mighty  wonders  love  performs, 
And  puts  a  comeliness  on  worms. 

Defil'd  and  loathsome  as  we  are, 
He  makes  us  white,  and  calls  us  fair. 
Adorns  us  with  that  heav'nly  dress, 
His  graces,  and  his  righteousness. 


168  JUNE  9. 

I  will  make  an  everlasting  covenant  with  tkentf  that 
I  will  not  turn  away  from  them  to  do  them  good, 
and  I  will  put  my  fear  into  their  hearts,  that  they 
shall  not  departfrom  md ;  yea,  I  will  rejoice  over 
them  to  do  them  good.  I  will  plant  them  in  this 
land  assuredly,  with  my  whole  heart  and  with  my 
whole  soul.  Jer.  xxxii.  40^  41.  /  will  cleanse 
them  from  all  their  iniquity,  whereby  they  have 
sinned  against  me,  and  I  will  pardon  all  their  in- 
iquity. Jer.  xxxiii.  8.  See  also  Ezek.  xxxvi.  26. 
26,  27. 

O  glorious  promise !  God  will  plant  us,  cleanse 
us,  and  not  leave  off  to  do  us  good.  If  we  do  not  ex- 
perience it,  the  reason  is,  that  either  we  resist,  or  do 
not  mind  the  workings  of  his  grace  enough,  which 
certainly  is  a  great  loss  ;  for  the  least  spiritual  loss 
is  greater  than  the  loss  of  the  whole  world.  O 
thou  God  of  my  covenant,  as  it  is  thy  heart's  desire 
to  work  and  give  all  that  is  good  without  ceasing, 
so  let  me  also  be  careful  without  ceasing,  to  open 
wide  the  mouth  of  faith  by  prayers,  and  receive  the 
blessed  gifts  of  thy  goodness.  And  whereas  my 
heart  is  even  now  prepared  for  thee,  be  pleased  to 
fill  it  up  with  thy  grace. 

Dear  God,  the  treasures  of  thy  love 

Are  everlasting  mines : 
Deep  as  our  helpless  miseries  are, 

And  boundless  as  our  sins. 

The  happy  gates  of  gospel  grace 

Stand  open  night  and  day  ; 
Lord,  we  are  come  to  seek  supplies. 

And  drive  our  wants  away. 


JUNE  10.  169 

My  mercy  will  I  keep  for  evermore  j  and  my  cove- 
nant  shall  stand  fast  with  him,  Psal.  Ixxxix. 
29. 

Generally  there  is  much  spoken  of  grace,  remis- 
sion of  sins,  and  the  assurance  thereof;  but  seldom 
enough  of  baptism,  which  gives  both  ;  for  though 
I  should  break  my  baptism  vow,  yet  the  covenant 
and  grace  of  God  does  not  fall  away.  As  soon  as 
I  repent  of  my  fall,  ask  pardon  through  Christ,  and 
return  to  my  duty,  it  is  the  same  again  as  if  I  had 
never  fallen :  I  have  recovered  the  eternal  grace 
and  forgiveness  of  all  sins,  which  was  given  me  in 
baptism. 

The  promise  of  my  Father's  love, 

Shall  stand  for  ever  good  : 
He  said  and  gave  his  son  to  death, 

And  seal'd  the  grace  with  blood. 
To  this  dear  cov'nant  of  thy  word 

I  set  my  worthless  name  : 
I  seal  the  engagement  of  my  Lord, 

And  make  my  humble  claim. 
The  light,  and  strength,  and  pard'ning  grace, 

And  glory  shall  be  mine  : 
My  hfe,  and  soul,  my  heart  and  flesh, 

And  all  my  powers  are  thine. 
I  call  that  legacy  my  own. 

Which  Jesus  did  bequeath  ; 
'Twas  purchased  with  a  dying  groan, 

And  ratified  in  death. 

Sweet  is  the  mem'ry  of  his  name, 

Who  blest  us  in  his  will, 
And  to  his  testament  of  love 

Made  his  own  life  the  seal. 
15 


170  JUNE  11. 

I  will  he  as  the  dew  unto  Israel;  he  shall  grow  as 
the  lili/f  and  cast  forth  his  roots  as  Lebanon, 
His  branches  shall  spread,  and  his  beauty  shall 
be  as  the  olive  tree,  Hos.  xiv.  Let  my  beloved 
come  into  his  garden  and  eat  his  pleasant  fruits. 
Cant.  iv.  16.  But  the  fruit  of  the  spirit  is  love, 
fyc.  Gal.  V.  22. 

Whatever  vile  lusts  and  profane  thoughts  are 
started  up  against  my  own  will,  by  the  remainder 
of  the  evil  root,  the  blessed  God  will  not  lay  them 
to  my  charge;  but  since  they  humble  me  deep, 
they  must  also  work  for  my  good,  though  they 
seem  sometimes  to  destroy  faith,  love,  and  all  other 
good  fruit,  that  I  am  like  a  barren  tree.  The  Lord 
has  promised  that  I  shall  be  green,  blossom,  and 
bring  forth  fruit.  This  word  must  also  be  fulfilled 
in  me,  though  it  should  grow  ever  so  slow,  and  even 
by  contrary  ways.  His  love  will  yet  be  shed  abroad 
in  my  heart,  and  constrain  powerfully. 

We  are  a  garden  wall'd  around, 
Chosen  and  made  peculiar  ground, 
A  little  spot,  enclos'd  by  grace, 
Out  of  the  world's  wide  wilderness. 

Awake,  O  heavenly  wind,  and  come. 
Blow  on  this  garden  of  perfume  : 
Spirit  divine  descend  and  breathe, 
A  gracious  gale  on  plants  beneath. 

Make  our  best  spices  flow  abroad 
To  entertain  our  Saviour,  God  : 
And  faith,  and  love,  and  joy  appear. 
And  every  grace  be  active  here. 


JUNE  12.  171 

I  will  perform  my  good  word  towards  you;  for  I 
know  the  thoughts  that  I  think  towards  you,  saith 
the  Lord,  thoughts  of  peace,  and  not  of  evil,  to 
give  you  an  expected  end.  Then  you  shall  pray 
unto  vie,  and  1  will  hearken  unto  you,  and  ye  shall 
seek  me  and  find  me  ;  I  will  turn  away  your  cap- 
tivily.  Jer.  xxix.  10, 11,  13.  For  the  word  of  the 
Lord  is  right ;  for  he  spoke  and  it  was  done,  he 
commanded  and  it  stood  fast.  PsaJ-  xxxiii.  4,  9. 

Were  it  so  light  a  matter  to  rely  on  the  faithful- 
ness of  God  in  times  of  distress,  what  need  to  give 
us  so  many  and  various  promises?  If  our  faith  be 
right,  we  must  also  endure,  and  wait  his  time  with 
patience,  which  certainly  is  not  an  easy  task  :  since 
the  promise  of  the  Lord,  not  only  tarries  very  often, 
but  sometimes  even  the  counterpart  will  happen, 
that  Providence  goes  quite  contrary  to  the  word, 
and  seems  as  if  it  could  not  be  true  at  all.  And 
then  we  must  remember  that  these  are  the  very 
ways  and  methods  of  God,  which  have  been  in  the 
deep,  and  acted  per  contraria,  contrary  to  our  ex- 
pectation. This  the  corruption  of  our  nature  re- 
quires ;  and  the  wisdom  of  God,  ever  chooses  first, 
to  help  us  inwardly,  and  prepare  us  to  a  right  use  of 
his  outward  helps  and  favours  :  and  thus  we  receive 
always  a  double  blessing  at  once  from  his  hands. 
Who  shall  pretend  to  teach  him  skill, 
Or  guide  the  counsels  of  his  will  ? 
His  wisdom,  like  a  sea  divine, 
Flows  deep  and  high  beyond  our  line. 

Each  of  his  words  demand  my  faith, 
My  soul  can  rest  on  all  he  saifh, 
His  truth  inviolably  keeps 
The  largest  promise  of  his  Hps 


172  JUNE  13. 

Beliold  I  will  allure  Iter-,  and  bring  her  into  the  wil- 
derness, and  speak  comfortably  unto  her.  Hos.  ii. 
14.    Come,  my  beloved,  let  us  go  forth  into  the 
field;  let  us  lodge  in  the  villages.  Cant.  vii.  11. 

O  Lord,  the  world  is  nothing  to  me  but  a  wil- 
derness, a  place  of  tribulation,  where,  being  daily 
tossed  to  and  fro,  i  enjoy  no  rest ;  but  whenever  I 
lifted  up  my  heart,  and  looked  for  peace  in  thee  by 
prayers,  thou  hast  always  spoke  comfortable  things 
to  me,  and  even  carried  me  safe  through  all  out- 
ward distresses.  Grant,  that  by  this  I  may  be 
stren»>thened  for  the  time  to  corae,  Avhen  I  am  at  a 
loss  again  what  course  to  take.  Let  me  always 
firmly  believe  thee  to  be  a  present  help  in  all  things, 
who  art  willing  and  able  to  carry  me  furthermore, 
through  ever  so  many  and  great  troubles  and  oppo- 
sitions, till  I  shall  be  safely  arrived  at  the  ports  of 
heaven. 

Lord,  what  a  wretched  land  is  this, 

That  yields  us  no  supply  ? 
No  cheering  fruits,  no  wholesome  trees, 

Nor  streams  of  living  joy. 
But  pricking  thorns  through  all  the  ground, 

And  mortal  poisons  grow. 
And  all  the  rivers  that  are  found, 

With  dangerous  waters  flow. 
Yet  the  dear  path  to  thine  abode 
Lies  through  this  horrid  land  : 
Lord,  we  would  keep  the  heavenly  road, 

And  run  at  thy  command. 
Our  souls  shall  tread  the  desert  through, 

With  uAdiverted  feet, 
And  faith  and  flaming  zeal  subdue 
The  terrors  that  we  meet. 


JUNE  14.  173 

For  the  power  of  the  Lord  is  great,  and  he  is  hon- 
oured of  the  lowly.  Sirach,  iii.  20.  For  those  that 
walk  in  jpride,  he  is  able  to  abase.  Dan.  iv.  37. 
The  kings  of  the  earth,  bring  their  glory  and  ho- 
nour-, into  the  city  of  God.  Rev.  xxi.  24. 

Some  are  of  such  insatiable  pride,  that  they  think 
themselves  not  proud  enough,  but  spend  sometimes 
much  money  upon  great  titles  and  offices,  only  to 
show  themselves  with  more  pride.  For  every  one, 
as  Mr.  John  Ardnt  observes,  "  by  nature  desires  to 
be  something  great,  but  none  to  be  lowly  with 
Christ  and  follow  him,  for  he  has  many  servants, 
but  very  few  followers."  Grant,  O  Lord,  that  I 
may  never  defile  myself  with  pride  ;  but  give  my- 
self up  to  thee  entirely,  with  all  my  inward  and  out- 
ward prerogatives  ;  to  seek  only  thine,  not  mine  own 
honour,  in  all  things.  What  greater  pride  can  there 
be  than  to  be  jealous  of  the  honours  of  his  station 
and  birth  ?  Have  we  not  much  more  reason  to  be 
humble  and  ashamed,  on  account  of  our  birth  and 
progenitors  ?  Have  not  all  our  ancestors  from  the 
very  first  to  the  last,  been  sinners  ?  Is  not  all  human 
blood  alike  corrupted  ?  What  can  it  then  be  else 
but  a  vain  sort  of  pride,  to  seek  any  difference  and 
glory  in  the  blood  ?  There  is  no  difference  before 
God,  except  we  are  born  again,  and  we  act  in  every 
rank  and  station  like  true  Christians,  and  do  all 
things  in  unfeigned  humility  to  the  glory  of  God. 
This  is  the  only  birth  and  prerogative,  in  which  we 
can  please  God,  and  adorn  our  outward  station. 

All  honours  perish  in  the  dust. 

And  pomp  and  beauty,  birth  and  blood  : 

The  glorious  day  exalts  the  just 
To  full  dominion  o'er  the  proud. 
16* 


174  JUNE  16. 

Jesus  Christy  the  same  yesterday^  to-day,  and  for 
ever.  Heb.  xiii.  8.  tVho  of  God  is  made  unto 
us  wisdom,  and  righteousness,  and  sanctifica- 
tion?  that,  as  it  is  written,  he  that  glories, 
let  him  glory  in  the  Lord.  1  Cor.  i.  30,  31. 
He  has  finished  the  transgression,  he  has  made 
reconciliation  for  iniquity,  he  has  brought  in 
everlasting  righteousness.  Dan.  ix.  24.  In 
him  have  we  righteousness  and  strength.  Isa, 
xlv.  24. 

In  ourselves  we  find  nothing  but  misery:  in 
Christ,  all  that  is  good,  nay  he  is  himself  our  all ; 
he  works  and  gives  what  is  necessary  to  salvation, 
therefore  we  cannot,  and  need  not  bring  any  thing 
to  him  of  our  own  ;  but  since  he  is  made  unto  us 
wisdom,  righteousness,  sanctification,  and  all,  we 
may,  and  must  rely  only  on  his  name,  and  draw 
every  thing  from  him,  by  continual  prayers  of  faith. 
And  he  being  our  ail,  the  law,  sin,  satan,  and  even 
our  own  judgments  have  lost  their  power  and  right 
of  condemnation  over  us. 

Jehovah  speaks,  let  Israel  hear, 

Let  all  the  earth  rejoice  and  fear, 

While  God's  eternal  Son  proclaims 

His  sovereign  honours  and  his  names. 

I  am  the  last,  and  I  the  first, 

The  Saviour  God,  and  God  the  just  ; 

There's  none  beside  pretends  to  show 

Such  justice  and  salvation  too. 

In  me  alone  shall  men  confess, 

Lays  all  their  strength  and  righteousness ; 

But  such  as  dare  despise  my  name, 

I'll  clothe  them  with  eternal  shame. 


JUNE  16,  175 

Beloved,  if  God  so  loved  us,  we  ought  also  to  love  one 
another.  1  John,  iv.  II.  /  say  unto  you,  love 
your  enemies-,  bless  them  that  curse  you,  do  good 
to  them  that  hate  you,  and  pray  for  them  that  des- 
pitefully  useyou^and  persecute  you,  that  you  may 
be  the  children  of  your  Father  which  is  in  heaven. 
Matt.  V.  44. 

Hypocrites  may  counterfeit  the  children  of  God 
in  many  things,  but  they  cannot  love  their  enemies 
from  their  hearts ;  and  yet  by  this  we  must  try  and 
know  ourselves  whether  we  are  actually  children  of 
God  or  not.  The  world  very  easily  but  falsely  sup- 
poses this  ;  but  sincere  Christians  find  it  often  very 
hard  to  believe  it  without  a  divine  sense  and  assu- 
rance of  it;  it  costs  them  many  a  sore  conflict;  for 
if  Satan  disputed  the  sonship  of  Christ,  much  less 
will  he  spare  any  of  us.  But  since  a  true  love  to 
the  children  of  God  and  to  our  enemies  is  a  sure 
evidence  of  our  state  of  grace,  we  have  our  titles 
clear  to  it,  though  we  should  walk  in  darkness,  and 
be  destitute  of  all  pleasant  sensations. 

Now  by  the  bowels  of  my  God, 

His  sharp  distress,  his  sore  complaints, 
By  his  last  groans,  his  dying  blood, 

I  charge  my  soul  to  love  the  saints. 
Clamour,  and  wrath,  and  war  begone, 

Envy  and  spite  for  ever  cease  : 
Let  bitter  words  no  more  be  known 

Amongst  the  saints,  the  sons  of  peace. 
Tender  and  kind  be  all  our  thoughts, 

Through  all  our  lives  let  mercy  run, 
O  God  forgive  our  num'rous  faults, 

For  the  dear  sake  of  Christ  thy  Son. 


176  JUNE  17. 

You  are  to  come  unto  Mount  Sion,and  unto  the  city  of 
the  living  God,  the  heavenly  Jerusalem,  and  to  an 
innumerable  company  of  angels^  to  the  general  as- 
sembly of  the  first-born,  which  are  written  in  hea- 
ven, and  to  God  the  judge  of  alL  and  to  the  spirits 
of  just  men  made  perfect,  and  to  Jesus  the  mediator 
of  the  new  covenant ;  and  to  the  blood  of  sprink- 
ling, that  speaJcs  better  things  than  that  of  Abel. 
Heb.  xii.  22 — 24.  This  has  fulfilled  the  promise. 
Isa.  XXXV.  10.  The  ransomed  fthc  Lord  shall  re- 
turn, <^c.     See  also  Eph.  ii.  5,  6.     Phil.  iii.  20. 

The  members  of  the  church  militant  and  trium- 
phant are  one  body,  of  which  Christ  is  the  head  ; 
consequently  the  former  are  as  blessed  here  below, 
and  if  they  continue  in  Christ,  as  safe  as  the  other 
above.  By  faith,  we  are  just  as  near  and  dear  to 
Christ,  as  just  and  happy,  as  we  can  desire  ;  it  is 
the  same  even  now  as  when  we  shall  come  to  be 
more  sanctified  ;  nay,  if  we  were  in  heaven  already; 
The  weak  children  enjoy  the  very  same  love  and 
pardon  as  the  strong  ones,  and  are  looked  upon  like 
the  perfect  souls  in  heaven.  May  the  Lord  but 
clear  our  hearts  from  unbelief  and  worldly  desires, 
to  receive  this  inestimable  treasure,  and  give  us 
more  assurance  of  it,  by  a  lively  faith. 

The  saints  on  earth  and  all  the  dead. 

But  one  communion  make, 
All  join  in  Christ  their  living  head, 

And  of  his  grace  partake. 

In  such  society  as  this, 

My  weary  soul  would  rest : 
The  man  that  dwells  were  Jesus  is, 

Must  be  for  ever  blest. 


JUNE  18.  177 

Ye  shall  drive  out  all  the  inhabitants  of  the  land ; 
hut  if  you  will  not  drive  out  the  inhabitants  of  the 
land  from  before  you,  then  it  shall  come  to  pass 
that  those  which  you  let  remain  of  them,  shall  be 
pricks  in  your  eyes  and  thorns  iuyour  sides,  and 
shall  vex  you  in  the  land  wherein  you  dwell. 
Numb,  xxxiii.  or  xxxiv.  52 — 55.  See  this  ful- 
filled. Judges,  i.  17.  Chap.  ii.  14.  Manasseh 
did  not  drive  out  the  inhabitants  of  Bethshean, 
<^c.  and  the  Cananites  would  diiell  in  that  land; 
so  that  they,  the  Israelites,  could  not  any  longer 
stand  before  their  enemies. 

The  very  same  is  to  be  observed  in  the  holy  and 
spiritual  battles  of  the  Lord.  He  that  fights  only 
against  outward  sins  is  but  very  little,  if  at  all,  ac- 
quainted with  the  dangerous  enemies  in  his  heart, 
or  the  deep  corruption  of  original  sin,  and  so  the 
tempter  may  easily  gain  an  advantage  over  him. 
Experienced  Christians  guard  more  against  the  in- 
ward assauls  of  wickedness  ;  they  are  at  peace 
with  no  sin,  but  keep  up  a  constant  war  with  all 
their  most  subtle  and  darling  lu?t«,  even  when  they 
appear  under  spiritual  disguise.  O  Lord,  give  me 
grace  never  to  spare  myself  or  any  of  my  sinful 
lusts  and  passions,  but  to  destroy  them  without  de- 
lay as  soon  as  they  begin  to  move  or  stir,  that  I 
may  not  be  destroyed  by  any. 

Forgive  my  guilt,  O  Prince  of  Peace, 

I'll  wound  my  soul  no  more  : 
Hence  from  my  heart,  ye  sins,  begone, 

For  Jesus  1  adore. 


178  JUNE  19. 

In  the  beginning  God  created  the  heaven  and  the 
earth,  and  the  earth  was  without  form,  and  void, 
and  darkness  was  upon  the  face  of  the  deep ;  and 
the  spirit  of  God  moved  upon  the  face  of  the  wa- 
ters. Gen.  i.  1,2.  We  are  his  workmanship,  ere- 
ated  in  Christ  Jesus :  Note,  unto  good  works,  not 
to  indifferent  things,  ivhich  God  has  before  ordain- 
ed that  we  should  walk  in  them.    Eph.  ii.  10. 

Therefore,  before  we  can  do  truly,  good  works, 
we  must  first  be  created  and  born  anew.  How  is 
it  possible  for  a  man  to  make  any  progress  in  reno- 
vation, if  a  real  change  has  not  been  wrought  in 
his  heart  ?  We  must  needs  be  first  stripped  of  our 
own  righteousness  and  strength,  and  made  sensible 
of  our  spiiitual  nakedness,  poverty,  and  nothing- 
ness by  true  repentance,  then  seek  remission  of  sins 
and  be  justified,  before  we  can  be  sanctified.  Christ 
being  the  vine,  we  must  first  be  planted  in  him,  and 
draw  nourishment  and  strength  from  him,  by  faith. 
When  it  is  fulfilled,  they  shall  feed  and  lie  down  on 
his  pasture,  and  none  shall  make  them  afraid.  Zeph. 
iii.  13.  Then  we  shall  be  able  to  bring  forth  good 
fruits,  and  obtain  victories.  For  it  is  God  himself 
that  thus  makes  us  perfect  in  every  good  work,  and 
prepares  a  table  before  us  ia  the  presence  of  our 
enemies. 

Mighty  Redeemer  set  me  free. 

From  my  old  state  of  sin  ; 
Oh,  make  my  soul  alive  to  thee, 

Create  new  powers  within. 

Renew  mine  eyes,  and  form  mine  ears, 

And  mould  my  heart  afresh  ; 
Give  me  new  passions,  joys,  and  fears. 

And  turn  the  stone  to  flesh. 


JUNE  20.  179 

In  the  Lord  have  I  righteousness  and  strength* 
Isa.  xlv.  24.  2  Cor.  ii.  14.  Chap.  v.  9. 
Justification,  through  faith  in  Christ,  at  first  is  a 
very  dark  doctrine,  hard  to  be  understood  ;  but  af- 
terwards we  find,  by  experience,  that  it  would  be 
impossible  to  be  saved  in  another  way,  and  that 
nothing  can  be  surer  than  this,  though  all  mankind 
should  turn  away  from  it.  It  will  soon  plainly  ap- 
pear, that  all  things,  even  our  best  pe«formances, 
are  unclean  in  the  sight  of  God,  and  could  not  be 
agreeable  to  him  in  the  least,  without  the  covering 
of  Christ's  righteousness.  Thus  we  are  brought  to 
submit  entirely  to  Christ,  and  at  last  to  look  upon 
ourselves  wholly  justified  through  him,  which  alone 
produces  rest,  strength,  and  a  gentle  spirit,  the  true 
image  of  Christ. 

In  vain  do  we  expect  to  effect  this,  by  the  persua- 
sions of  our  natural  reason,  or  the  strong  resolutions 
of  a  generous  mind.  It  is  only  to  keep  us  off  from 
earnestly  wrestling  in  prayer,  if  by  our  own  strength 
sometimes  we  are  able  to  master  our  affections.  But 
this  only  a  building  of  our  own.  The  form  of  god- 
liness we  have,  without  its  power  ;  we  deceive  our 
own  souls.  Nothing  can  be  pleasing  in  the  sight  of 
God,  and  profit  us  at  the  last  day,  but  what  he  works 
himself.  Away,  therefore,  with  all  these  doings  of 
our  own.  Let  us  acknowledge  the  weakness  and 
nothingness  of  our  strength,  and  apply,  in  our  poor, 
blind,  naked,  lost,  and  miserable  condition,  to  the 
righteousness  of  Christ's  blood  :  then  we  shall  also 
find  power  and  dominion  over  sin.   Isa.  xxxiii.  24. 

Sinners  shall  hear  the  sound, 

Their  thankful  tongues  shall  own. 

Our  righteousness  and  strength  is  found 
In  thee,  the  Lord  alone. 


180  JUNE  21. 

In  the  day  of  my  trouble  will  I  call  upon  thee-,  for 
thou  wilt  hear  me.  Psal.  Ixxxvi.  7.  God's  an- 
swer. Then  shalt  thou  call  and  the  Lord  shall 
answer ;  thou  shalt  cry,  and  he  shall  say-,  here  I 
am.  Isa.  Iviii  9.  The  Lord  is  rich  unto  all  that 
call  upon  Mm,  and  it  shall  come  to  pass,  that 
2chosoever  shall  call  upon  the  name  of  the  Lord 
shall  be  saved.  (This,  to  the  comfort  of  the 
weak,  is  'several  times  repeated  in  scripture. 
Joel,  ii.  32.  Acts,  ii.  21.  Rom.  x.  12,  13,  19.) 
Therefore  when  the  righteous  cry.  the  Lord  hear- 
eth  them,  anddelivereth  them  out  of  their  troubles. 
Psal.  xxxiv.  ;  8.  The  Lord  is  nigh  unto  all  that 
call  upon  him.  Psal.  cxlv.  18.  The  prayer  of  a 
righteous  man  availeth  much.    James  v.  16. 

O  glorious  promise  1  How  can  God  deny  me  any 
thing  now  that  I  pray  for  ?  He  has  passed  his  word 
for  it ;  his  Son  has  purchased  it ;  the  Holy  Spirit 
works  the  prayer  ;  the  word  holds  it  forth,  and  the 
prayer  of  faith  lays  hold  of  it  and  actually  receives 
it.  Prayer  is  the  mouth  of  faith.  If  thou  wilt 
have  much,  open  thy  mouth  wide  and  it  shall  be 
filled.  Who  then  should  not  be  stirred  up  to  pray 
much  !  O  what  foolishness  is  this,  that  we  have 
nothing,  but  can  obtain  all  from  God,  and  yet  are 
so  loth  to  pray  much  and  pray  right. 

God  knows  the  pains  his  servants  feel 

He  hears  his  children  cry  ; 
And  their  best  wishes  to  fulfil, 

His  grace  is  ever  nigh. 


JUNE  22.  181 

Joseph  said  unto  his  brethren,  come  near  to  wie,  / 
prayyoUi  <S^c.  lam  Joseph  your  brother,  whom  ye 
sold  into  Egypt;  now  be  not  angry  with  your- 
selves, that  ye  sold  me  hither;  for  God  did  send 
me  before  for  to  preserve  your  life.  Gen.xlv.  4,  5. 
In  like  manner  does  Christ  speak  to  his  brethren. 

0  Ephraim,  tchat  shall  I  do  unto  thee  ?  O  Ju- 
dah,  what  shall  I  do  unto  thee  ?  for  your  goodness 
is  as  a  morning  cloud.  S^c.  Hos.  vi.  4.  That  thou 
mayest  remember  and  be  confounded,  and  never 
more  open  thy  mouth  because  of  thy  shame,  when 

1  am  pacified  toward  thee  for  all  thou  hast  done, 
Ezek.  xvi.  63. 

We  must  never  offer  to  vindicate  or  extenuate 
our  failings  and  sins,  but  rather  be  ashamed  and 
humbly  confess  our  guilt.  Thus  the  Lord  not  only 
pardons  our  transgressions,  but  even  makes  them 
turn  to  our  advantage,  and  clears  us  often  from  the 
most  intricate  difficulties  into  which  we  have  run 
ourselves.  He  averts  the  offence  given  by  our 
faults,  and  orders  them  to  the  good  of  others,  that 
they  must  serve  to  their  improvement,  or  at  least 
do  them  no  harm.     O.  the  riches  of  his  grace  ! 

What  mortal  pov/er  from  things  unclean 

Can  pure  productions  bring  ? 
Who  can  command  a  vital  stream 

From  an  infected  spring. 

Yet,  mighty  God,  thy  wondrous  love  ; 

Can  make  our  nature  clean  ; 
While  Christ  and  grace  prevail  above 

The  tempter,  death,  and  sin. 

16 


182  JUNE  23. 

Truly  God  is  good  to  Israel,  even  to  such  as 
are  of  a  pure  heart,  Psal.  Ixxiii.  1.  Dearly 
beloved,  I  beseech  you  as  strangers  and  pil^ 
grims,  abstain  from  fleshly  lusts,  which  war 
against  the  soul.  1  Pet.  ii.  11. 

Therefore,  says  Luther  on  this  passage,  a  con- 
stant conflict  is  required,  to  subdue  not  only  the 
grosser  sort  of  carnal  lusts,  but  even  the  most  subtle 
motions  against  the  Spirit,  which  also  war  against 
the  soul.  He  that  yields  his  members  instruments 
of  sin,  wounds  and  destroys  himself  with  his  own 
sword,  Sirach,  xxi.  1.  and  fights  at  the  same  time 
against  God  with  his  own  weapons.  O  the  unnatu- 
ral madness  ;  consequently  if  we  would  not  be  kil- 
led by  our  lusts,  we  must  kill  them  ;  though  not  by 
our  own  power  or  anger,  but  by  the  spirit  of  God. 
O  Lord,  make  me  sensible  of  their  wills,  and  ear- 
nest in  the  conflict. 

Thus  shall  we  best  proclaim  abroad 
The  honours  of  our  Saviour  God  : 
When  the  salvation  reigns  within. 
And  grace  subdues  the  power  of  sin. 

Our  flesh  and  sense  must  be  denied, 
Passion  and  envy,  lust  and  pride  ; 
While  justice,  temperance,  truth,  and  love 
Our  inward  piety  approve. 

Religion  bears  our  spirits  up, 
While  we  expect  that  blessed  hope, 
The  bright  appearance  of  the  Lord, 
And  faith  stands  leaning  on  his  word- 


JUNE  24.  185 

If  God  be  for  us,  who  can  he  against  us ;  he  who 
spared  not  his  own  Son,  but  delivered  him  up  for 
us  all,  how  shall  he  not  imih  him  freely  give  us  all 
things?  Even  his  holy  Spirit  which  he  promised 
us  so  often,  and  is  purchased  already  by  Christ. 
Luke,  xi.  5. — 13.  Who  shall  lay  any  thing  to 
the  charge  of  God's  elect  ?  It  is  God  that  justi- 
fieth,  who  is  he  that  condemneth  ?  It  is  Christ 
that  died,  yea,  rather,  that  is  risen  again,  who  is 
even  at  the  right  hand  of  God,  who  also  maketh 
intercession  for  us.  Rom.  viii.  31,  34.  Like- 
wise, the  Spirit  also  helpeth  our  infirmities,  for 
we  know  not  ivhat  to  pray  for,  as  we  ought,  but 
the  Spirit  itself  maketh  intercession  for  us  with 
groanings,  which  cannot  be  uttered.  Ver.  26. 
See  also  the  15th  and  16  verses  of  this  chapter. 

The  Father,  the  Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  being 
for  me,  nay,  mine  own,  all  that  belongs  to  them, 
even  the  whole  heaven  is  mine,  and  he  pours  down 
continually  the  blessing  of  his  grace  for  the  never 
ceasing  intercessions  and  cryings  of  Christ's  blood  ; 
for  through  my  Mediator  and  Minister  of  the  true 
tabernacle,  my  prayer  ascends  to  God,  and  all  the 
fulness  of  God  descents  to  me.  O  that  only  my 
heart  was  always  vv^ide  open  to  receive  the  same. 
Come,  let  us  lift  our  joyful  eyes 

Up  to  the  courts  above, 
And  smile  to  see  our  Father  there 

Upon  a  throne  of  love. 
The  peaceful  gates  of  heavenly  bliss 

Are  opened  by  the  Son  : 
High  let  us  raise  our  notes  of  praise 
And  reach  the  Almighty  throne. 


184  JUNE  25. 

Return,  thou  backsliding  Israel^  saith  the  Lordy  and 
J  will  not  cause  mine  anger  to  fall  upon  you  ;  for 
I  am  mercifuh  saith  the  Lord,  and  I  will  not  keep 
anger  for  ever.  Jer.  iii.  12.  Thou  hast  received 
gifts  for  men.  yea,  for  the  rebellious  also,  that  the 
Lord  God  might  dwell  among  them.  Psal.  Ixviii. 
19.  My  covenant  will  I  not  break  or  alter.  Psal. 
Ixxxix.  35.  See  also,  1  Pet.  iii.  21.  what  is  said 
of  our  baptismal  covenant,  and  Luke  xv.  of  the 
prodigal  son,  how  his  father  went  out  to  meet 
hinci,  when  he  returned. 

Even  when  we  do  not  seek  God,  but  flee  from 
him,  yet  he  seeks  and  longs  for  us,  showing  us  the 
misery  of  our  condition,  and  drawing  to  his  Son. 
"Why  should  he  not  receive  us  now,  when  we  by  his 
drawings  conie  to  him,  through  Christ,  earnestly 
seeking  him,  and  instead  of  fleeing  from  him,  flee 
to  him.  What  mother  will  not  willingly  receive 
her  once  lost,  but  now  returning  child  again  ? 

"Who  can  describe  the  joys  that  rise 
Through  all  the  courts  of  Paradise, 
To  see  a  prodigal  return, 
To  see  an  heir  of  glory  born  ? 

"With  joy  the  Father  doth  approve 
The  fruit  of  his  eternal  love  ; 
The  Son  with  joy  looks  down  and  sees 
The  purchase  of  his  agonies. 

The  Spirit  takes  delight  to  view 
The  holy  soul  he  formed  anew  ; 
And  saints  and  angels  join  to  sing 
The  growing  empire  of  the'ir  King. 


JUNE  56.  18& 

And  the  inhabitants  shall  not  say^  I  am  sick  ; 
the  people,  that  dwell  therein  shall  he  for- 
given their  iniquity.  Isa.  xxxiii.  24.  See  also, 
Psal.  cxxx.  4.  Ezek.  xvi.  63.  Luke,  vii.  1. 
John,  ii.  1,  2. 

In  these  passages  we  see  that  a  right  belief  of 
the  remission  of  sins,  or  of  justification,  constrains 
us  most  of  all  things  to  fear  and  love  God,  which 
cannot  fail  of  producing  true  holiness.  This  faith  of 
a  believer  hanging  upon  grace,  and  fixing  its  eye 
upon  Christ  alone,  as  if  there  was  nothing  good  in 
him,  yet,  since  all  is  really  but  very  imperfect; 
both  keeps  him  in  rest  and  joy,  and  makes  him 
willing  and  able  to  run  the  Christian  race  ;  whereas 
a  reliance  on  works,  and  experiences  produces 
nothing  but  unbelief,  uneasiness,  uncertainty,  and 
weakness. 

There  is  a  voice  of  sovereign  grace 

Sounds  from  the  sacred  word, 
Oh  !  ye  despairing  sinners,  come, 

And  trust  upon  the  Lord. 
My  soul  obeys  the  Almighty  call, 

And  runs  to  this  relief, 
I  would  believe  thy  promise,  Lord, 

Oh,  help  my  unbelief. 
Stretch  out  thine  arm,  victorious  King, 

My  reigning  sins  subdue, 
Drive  the  old  dragon  from  his  seat, 

With  all  his  hellish  crew. 
A  guilty,  weak,  and  helpless  worm, 

On  thy  kind  arms  I  fall : 
Be  thou  my  strength  and  righteousnesi, 

My  Jesus  and  my  all. 

16* 


186  JUNE  27. 

Let  your  loins  he  girded  about ^  and  your  lights  hum- 
ing,  and  ye  yourselves  like  unto  men  that  wait  for 
their  Lord.  Blessed  are  those  servants^  whom  the 
Lord-,  when  he  comes,  shall  jind  watching ;  verily 
I  say  unto  you  thai  he  shall  gird  himself,  and 
make  them  to  sit  down  to  meat,  and  will  come  forth 
and  serve  them ;  but  that  servant  who  knew  his 
Lord  s  will  and  prepared  not  himself  neither  did 
according  to  his  will,  shall  be  beaten  with  many 
stripes ;  for  unto  whomsoever  much  is  given^  of 
him  shall  be  much  required-  Luke,  xii.  35,  37, 
41,  48.  See  also,  John,  xiii.  27.   Chap.  xv.  14. 

Suffer  me  never,  O  my  dear  Saviour,  to  be  luke- 
warm, careless,  and  drowsy  again  ;  make  me  ever- 
more vigilant  and  zealous  in  drawing  the  necessary 
ointment  and  oil  of  the  spirit  from  thy  blessed  name, 
that  I  may  be  always  ready,  and  the  light  of  my 
faith  and  love,  may  be  burning  clear  every  day. 
Let  me  not  commit  the  foolishness,  to  put  off  my 
preparation  to  future  times,  but  do  thou  prepare  me 
every  hour.  Amen. 

My  drowsy  powers,  why  sleep  ye  so  ? 

Awake  my  sluggish  soul. 
Nothing  has  half  thy  work  to  do, 

Yet  nothing's  half  so  dull. 
We,  for  whom  God  the  Son  came  down, 

And  labour'd  for  our  good  : 
How  careless  to  secure  that  crown 

He  purchased — with  his  blood  ! 
Lord,  shall  we  lie  so  sluggish  still, 

And  never  act  our  parts  ! 
Come,  holy  Dove,  from  the  heavenly  hill, 

And  sit  and  warm  our  hearts. 


JUNE  28.  187 

Be  content  with  such  things  as  ye  have,     Heb. 
xiii.  5.  rejoicing  (of  eternity.)  Rom.  xii.  12. 

A  true  believer  being  content,  is  not  much  con. 
cerned  about  temporal  things,  Perhups  he  is  more 
afraid  of  worldly  prosperity,  goods,  and  money, 
than  of  calamities  and  losses  ;  which  sometimes  dis- 
turb him  less  than  the  former.  He  knows  that  the 
hand  of  God,  who  supplies  him  alone,  having  the 
whole  world  and  all  its  treasures  at  his  disposal, 
can  easily  command  another  mine  if  one  fails.  The 
Lord  is  his  portion,  therefore,  says  his  soul,  will  I 
hope  in  him.     Lament,  iii.  24. 

My  soul  forsakes  her  vain  delight, 

And  bids  the  world  farewell ; 
Base  as  the  dirt  beneath  my  feet, 

And  mischievous  as  hell. 

There's  nothing  round  this  spacious  earth 

That  suits  my  large  desire, 
To  boundless  joy  and  solid  mirth 

My  nobler  thoughts  aspire. 

Where  pleasure  rolls  its  living  flood. 

From  sin  and  dross  refined, 
Still  springing  from  the  throne  of  God, 

And  fit  to  cheer  the  mind. 

Had  I  the  pinions  of  a  dove, 

I'd  climb  the  heavenly  road, 
There  sits  my  Saviour  drest  in  love, 

And  there  my  smiling  God. 


188  JUNE  29. 

Let  no  corrupt  communication  proceed  out  of 
your  mouth,  but  that  which  is  good  to  the  use  of 
edifying  J  that  it  may  minister  grace  unto  the 
hearers;  and  grieve  not  the  holy  Spirit  of 
God.  Let  not  filthiness  be  once  named  among 
you,  nor  foolish  talking,  nor  jesting,  which 
are  not  convenient.  Eph.  iv.  29.   Chap.  v.  4. 

Idle  words  are  hurtful  words  ;  they  grieve  the 
holy  Spirit,  destroy  what  power  has  been  obtain- 
ed by  prayer,  and  cause  nothing  but  levity  and  dis- 
traction of  mind  :  let  this  be  a  caution  against  talk- 
ing too  much ;  for  if  it  does  not  tend  to  the  glory  of 
God,  it  is  nothing  but  corrupt  communication.  May 
all  Christians  take  heed  to  refrain  their  tongues, 
and  never  speak  unadvisedly,  but  always  consider 
first  whether  their  words  can  be  profitable  to  others 
and  acceptable  to  God  in  heaven.  O  Lord,  teach 
me  by  thy  wisdom  to  put  a  lock  to  my  mouth,  and 
to  weigh  every  word  like  gold.  Let  my  heart  and 
lips  be  moved  and  governed  by  thy  holy  Spirit, 
that  both  my  silence  and  talking  may  be  according 
to  thy  will  and  direction.  Grant  that  I  may  always 
chiefly  converse  with  thee  in  prayer  and  thanksgiv- 
ing, for  the  good  of  my  own  soul  and  others.  And 
whenever  I  am  to  open  my  lips  in  due  time,  let  my 
words  be  so  seasoned  and  blessed  as  to  administer 
grace  to  the  hearers. 

So  let  our  lips  and  lives  express 
The  holy  gospel  wo  profess  ; 
So  let  our  words  and  virtues  shine, 
To  prove  the  doctrine  all  divine. 


JUNE  30.  189t 

Ijct  us  net  he  weary  in  well  doing;  for  in  dwt 
season  we  shall  reap,  if  we  faint  not.  As  we 
have  therefore  opportunity,  let  us  do  good. 
Gal.  vi.  9. 

Riches  and  goods  are  not  given  unto  us  to  heap 
them  up,  to  take  delight  in  the  counting  of  them, 
and  to  sully  both  hands  and  hearts  at  once  with 
the  same.  In  telling  our  money  we  might  well  pray. 
Lord  keep  me  from  covetousness,  teach  me  so  to 
reckon  my  money  in  faith  as  never  to  besmear  my 
heart,  as  it  does  my  fingers,  and  make  me  wise  and 
willing  to  do  good  in  time,  that  I  may  improve  all 
opportunities  and  gifts,  to  the  best  and  eternal  pur- 
poses ;  and  may  not  neglect  or  misapply  any. 
What  more  precious  in  the  whole  universe  than 
time  "^  every  minute  is  a  part  of  eternity,  which  if 
well  spent,  brings  a  glorious  fruit  in  heaven.  It  is 
a  thousand  pities  that  they  should  often  so  shame- 
fully be  trifled  away,  or  not  redeemed  enough  to 
the  sowing  of  a  good  seed  for  eternity.  O,  the 
dreadful  loss  of  so  many  precious  hours,  of  which 
we  cannot  reap  a  blessed  fruit  in  the  world  to 
come ! 

Life  is  the  time  that  God  hath  given 
To  escape  from  hell  and  fly  to  heaven, 
The  day  of  grace,  and  mortals  may 
Secure  the  blessings  of  the  day. 

Then  what  my  thoughts  design  to  do, 
My  hands,  with  all  your  might  pursue, 
Since  no  device,  nor  work  is  found, 
Nor  faith,  nor  hope,  beneath  the  ground. 


190  JULY  1. 

Teach  me  to  do  thy  will,  for  thou  art  my  God ;  thy 
Spirit  is  good ;  lead  me  into  the  land  of  upright- 
ness. Psal.  cxliii.  10.  Divine  answer.  He  that 
has  mercy  on  them,  shall  lead  them,  even  by  the 
springs  of  loater  shall  he  guide  them.  Isa.  xlix.  10. 
I  will  bring  the  blind  by  a  loay  that  they  knoio  not. 
I  will  lead  them  in  paths  that  they  have  not  known. 
I  will  make  darkness  light  before  them,  and  crook- 
ed  things  straight.  These  things  will  I  do  unto 
them,  and  not  forsake  them.  Chap.  xlii.  16. 

Believing  souls,  resting  on  the  merits  of  Christ, 
do  not  make  it  their  business  legally  to  fulfil  the 
law,  and  yet  are  always  doing  the  works  of  the  law. 
Nay,  being  sensible  of  their  blindness,  saying 
"  neither  do  we  know  what  to  do,"  they  give  them- 
selves willingly  and  entirely  up  to  their  heavenly 
Leader,  to  be  guided  into  all  his  ways  and  steps, 
only  at  his  pleasure,  praying  continually  even  in 
the  least  things. 

In  thee  I  trust,  to  thee  I  sigh, 
And  lift  my  heavy  soul  on  high, 
For  thee  sit  waiting  all  the  day, 
And  wear  the  tiresome  hours  away. 

Break  off  my  fetters,  Lord,  and  show 
Which  is  the  path  my  feet  shall  go, 
If  snares  and  foes  beset  the  road, 
I  flee  to  hide  me  near  my  God. 

Teach  me  to  do  thy  holy  will, 
And  lead  me  to  thy  heavenly  hill ; 
Let  the  good  spirit  of  thy  love 
Conduct  me  to  thy  courts  above. 


JULY  2.  191 

Thou  therefore  endure  hardness  as  a  soldier  of 
Jesus  Christ.  No  man  that  warreth  entangles 
himself  with  the  affairs  of  this  life.  2  Tim. 
ii.  3,  4. 

Our  way  lying  here  through  many  tribulations, 
sorrow,  and  vexation,  O  what  need  we  have  then 
always  to  abide  in  Christ,  our  peace,  quietly  and 
faithfully  to  keep  to  his  word  and  to  be  instant  in 
prayer.  Thus  we  will  certainly  be  delivered  at  last, 
though  we  were  in  the  utmost  straits.  Nay,  every 
thing,  even  the  sufferings  themselves,  are  nothing 
but  salvation  and  a  sowing  for  eternity,  which  we 
must  look  for  and  depend  upon. 

When  I  can  read  my  title  clear, 

To  mansions  in  the  skies, 
I  bid  farewell  to  every  fear, 

And  wipe  my  weeping  eyes. 

Should  earth  against  my  soul  engage, 

And  hellish  darts  be  hurled, 
Then  can  1  smile  at  Satan's  rage, 

And  face  a  frowning  world. 

Let  cares  like  a  wide  deluge  come, 

And  storms  of  sorrow  fall, 
May  1  but  safely  reach  my  home, 

My  God,  my  heaven,  my  all. 

There  shall  I  bathe  my  weary  soul 

In  seas  of  heavenly  rest, 
And  not  a  wave  of  trouble  roll, 

Across  my  peaceful  breast. 


192  JULY  3. 

Learn  of  rne^for  I  am  meeJe  and  lowly  in  heart,  and 
ye  shalljind  rest  unto  your  souls.  Matt.  xi. 29.  Be 
clothed  with  humility,  for  God  resists  the  proud, 
and  gives  grace  to  the  humble.  Humble  yourselves 
therefore  under  the  mighty  hand  of  God.  that  he 
may  exalt youin  due  time.  1  Pet.  v.  6,  6.  Judith, 
ix.  13. 

Such  as  are  haughty  and  self-conceited,  rush 
against  the  mighty  hand  of  God,  and  destroy  them- 
selves ;  but  those  that  bow  and  humble  under  it, 
will  be  protected  by  the  same.  Whatever  skill  of 
learning  and  demonstration  we  may  acquire  in  the 
schools  of  human  sciences,  if  we  do  not  learn  to  be 
lowly  in  heart,  and  dead  to  the  world,  the  scripture 
does  not  allow  us  to  be  truly  wise  and  enlightened, 
but  calls  us  poor,  blind,  miserable,  worldly  stu- 
dents of  glory.  Prov.  xi.  2.  1  Cor.  first  and  second 
chapters.  Therefore  St.  Austin  says,  "the  more  a 
man  dies  to  this  world,  the  more  he  is  enlightened." 

Is  there  ambition  in  my  heart  ? 

Search  gracious  God  and  see, 
Or  do  I  act  a  haughty  part? 

Lord,  I  appeal  to  thee. 

I  charge  my  thoughts  be  humble  still, 

And  all  my  carriage  mild  ; 
Content,  my  Father,  with  thy  will, 

And  quiet  as  a  child. 

The  patient  soul,  the  lowly  mind, 

Shall  have  a  large  reward  ; 
Let  saints  in  sorrow  lie  resigned, 

And  trust  a  faithful  Lord, 


JULY  4.  193 

JLove  the  Lord,  all  ye  his  saints,  Psal.  xxxi.  23. 

It  is  highly  necessary  for  all,  even  the  most  re- 
ligious, but  especially  for  young  people,  to  avoid  a 
familiar  conversation  with  persons  of  the  other 
sex.  The  corruption  of  our  nature  being  too  great, 
and  the  enemy  too  cunning  ;  it  may  at  least  produce 
an  addicteduess  inconsistent  with  the  love  of  Christ, 
and  have  a  bad  appearance,  which  will  be  matter 
of  grief  to  the  righteous,  and  of  slander  to  the 
wicked.  But  to  cleave  only  to  Christ  is  the  best 
preservative  against  the  love  of  creatures. 

Come,  holy  Spirit,  heavenly  Dove, 
With  all  thy  quick'ning  powers. 

Kindle  a  flame  of  sacred  love 
In  these  cold  hearts  of  ours. 

Look  how  we  grovel  here  below, 

Fond  of  these  trifling  toys  : 
Our  souls  can  neither  fly  nor  go 

To  reach  eternal  joys. 

Dear  Lord  !  and  shall  we  ever  live  ■ 

At  this  poor  dying  rate  ? 
Our  love  so  faint,  so  cold  to  thee 

And  thine  to  us  so  great. 

Come,  holy  Spirit,  heavenly  Dove, 
With  all  thy  quick'ning  powers; 

Come  shed  abroad  a  Saviour's  love, 
And  that  shall  kindle  ours. 


17 


194  JULY  5. 

Love  ye  your  enemies  and  do  good,  and  lend,  hoping 
for  nothing  again,  and  your  reward  shall  be  great. 
Be  ye  therefore  mercifuh  as  your  Father  also  is 
merciful ;  give,  and  it  shall  be  given  unto  you, 
good  measure,  pressed  down,  and  shaken  together, 
and  running  over.  Luke,  vi.  36 — 38.  WhosO' 
ever  shall  give  to  drink,  to  one  of  these  little  ones, 
a  cup  of  cold  water  only,  in  the  name  of  a  disci- 
ple, verily  I  say  unto  you,  he  shall  in  no  wise  lose 
his  reward.  Matt.  x.  42.  For,  inasmuch  as  ye 
have  done  it  unto  the  least  of  these  my  brethren, 
ye  have  done  it  unto  ms.  Chap.  xxv.  40.  God 
loveth  a  cheerful  giver  ;  God  is  able  to  make  all 
grace  abound  towards  you.  He  that  ministers 
seed  to  the  sower,  can  minister  your  food,  and 
multiply  your  seed  sown.  2  Cor.  ix.  7,  8,  10. 

Who  will  refuse  the  sower  his  victuals  ?  The 
more  we  bestow  upon  others,  the  more  the  Lord 
bestows  upon  us  again.  The  more  plentifully  we 
sow,  the  more  the  seed  will  multiply  here  to  sow 
more,  and  the  more  our  harvest  will  be  blessed. 
Prov.  xvii.  18.  Eccles.  xi.  1 — 6. 

Happy  is  he  that  fears  the  Lord, 

And  follows  his  commands  ; 
That  lends  the  poor  without  reward, 

Or  gives  with  lib'ral  hands. 

As  pity  dwells  within  his  breast 

To  all  the  sons  of  need  ; 
So  God  shall  answer  his  request 

With  blessings  on  his  seed. 


JULY  6.  195 

Loose  them  and  bring  them  unto  me ;  and  if  any 
say  aught  unto  you,  ye  shall  say-,  the  Lord  hath 
need  of  them,  and  straightway  he  will  send  them. 
Matt.  xxi.  2,  3.  The  spirit  of  the  Lord  came 
mightily  upon  him,  and  the  cords  that  icere  upon 
his  arms,  became  as  fax  that  was  burnt  with  f  re, 
and  his  bands  loosed  from  off  his  hands.  Judges, 
XV.  14. 

Thus  the  Spirit  of  the  Lord  makes  us  free  from 
all  spiritual  bonds  ;  for  where  the  Spirit  of  the 
Lord  is,  there  is  liberty.  2  Cor.  iii.  17.  Though  I 
was  torn  from  Christ  by  the  enemy,  yet  as  a  rob- 
ber he  gets  no  right  to  me.  Christ  does  not  give 
up  for  this  reason,  his  right  which  he  has  to  me  on 
so  many  accounts,  and  as  soon  as  I  am  willing  by 
his  grace,  to  give  up  myself  to  him,  and  desire  to 
be  delivered  from  the  power  of  satan,  he  vindicates 
and  saves  me  as  his  property  ;  I  am  his,  satan  loses 
his  hold,  and  nothing  in  the  world  can  withhold 
me  from  him.     All  the  fetters  must  fall  off. 

What  though  the  hosts  of  death  and  hell 

All  armed  against  me  stood, 
Terrors  no  more  shall  shake  my  soul, 

My  refuge  is  my  God. 

Arise,  O  Lord,  fulfil  thy  grace, 

While  I  thy  glory  sing  : 
My  God  has  broke  the  serpent's  teeth, 

And  Death  has  lost  his  sting. 

Salvation  to  the  Lord  belongs, 

His  arm  alone  can  save : 
Blessings  attend  thy  people  here, 

And  reach  beyond  the  grave. 


196  JULY  7. 

Make  you  a  new  heart,  and  a  new  spirit,  Ezek. 
xviii.  31.  See  also,  2  Cor.  v.  17—21. 

Many  are  converted,  hut  not  entirely  to  Christ, 
and  from  their  own  ri^rhteousness,  so  as  to  be  truly 
sensible  of  their  wickedness  and  abomination,  and 
earnestly  to  tide  to  Christ  for  reconciliation  and 
righteousness  :  and  therefore  never  get  their  hearts 
changed,  but  continue  on  in  their  mere  outward 
moral  state,  year  after  year.  O  Lord,  let  me  daily 
receive  a  word  from  thee,  to  nourish  and  strength- 
en my  soul,  so  as  to  be  renewed  daily  by  it  more 
and  more. 

Not  all  the  outward  forms  on  earth, 

Nor  rites  that  God  has  given, 
Nor  will  of  man,  nor  blood,  nor  birth, 

Can  raise  a  soul  to  heaven. 

The  sov'reign  will  of  God,  alone, 

Creates  us  heirs  of  grace, 
Born  in  the  image  of  his  son, 

A  new,  peculiar  race. 

The  Spirit,  like  some  heavenly  wind, 

Blows  on  the  sons  of  flesh, 
New  models  all  the  carnal  mind. 

And  forms  the  man  afresh. 

Our  quicken'd  souls  awake  and  rise 
From  the  long  sleep  of  death  ; 

On  heavenly  things  we  fix  our  eyes, 
And  praise  employs  our  breath. 


g[ULY  8.  1&7 

Martha^  Martha,  thou  art  careful  and  troubled 
about  many  things,  Luke,  x,  41.  Keep  thy 
heart  with  all  diligence,  for  out  of  it  are  the 
issues  of  life.  Prov.  iv.  23, 

As  the  virtue  of  a  strong  spirituous  liquor  evapo- 
rates by  degress  iu  a  vial  which  is  not  closely  stop- 
ped, in  like  manner,  the  life  and  power  of  the  spi- 
rit insensibly  vanishes  away,  if  the  heart  is  not  kept 
with  all  diligence.  Of  the  fornner,  remains  only 
water  ;  of  the  latter,  nothing  but  the  form  of  reli- 
gion ;  or  perhaps  some  false  principles  amt  errors 
are  crept  in.  Therefore,  many  must  be  tried  and 
sifted,  that  they  may  know,  like  Hezekiah,  what 
is  in  their  hearts.  2  Chron.  xxxii.  31.  Conse- 
quently, what  more  needful,  than  to  take  heed  to 
our  spirits,  and  to  keep  close  to  the  written  word  ; 
for  as  the  latter  times  draw  nearer,  the  more  plau- 
sible will  errors  and  seducements  appear,  both  on 
your  right  hand,  and  on  your  left,  to  be  drawn  off 
from  the  truth,  either  by  the  false  worldly  pru- 
dence, or  the  pretended,  spiritual  form  of  fanatics. 

0  Lord,  permit  me  not  to  be, 
A  stranger  to  myself  and  thee  ; 
Amidst  a  thousand  thoughts  I  rove, 
Forgetful  of  my  highest  love. 

Call  me  away  from  JBesh  and  sense, 

One  sovereign  word  can  draw  me  thence, 

1  would  obey  the  voice  divine, 
And  all  inferior  things  resign. 

Be  earth  with  all  her  scenes  withdrawn, 
Let  noise  and  vanity  begone  ; 
In  secret  silence  of  the  mind, 
My  heaven  and  there  my  God  I  find, 
17* 


198  JULY  9. 

My  soul  thirsteth  after  thee  as  a  barren  land.  Psal» 
cxiiii.  6.  Let  him  that  is  athirst  come,  and  whoso- 
ever will,  let  him  take  the  water  of  life  freely.  Rev. 
xxii.  17.  If  any  man  thirst,  let  him  come  unto  me 
and  drink.  He  that  believes  on  wie,  as  the  scrip- 
ture has  said,  out  of  his  belly  shall  flow  rivers  of 
living  water.  John,  vii.  37,  38. 

When  thou  art  dry  and  barren,  examine  thyself 
closely  what  may  be  the  cause  :  ask  pardon  for  all 
oifences,  and  take  care  to  mend  them.  And  though 
thou  shouldst  not  find  any  thing  particular,  yet 
humble  thyself  deeply  before  the  Lord  ;  but  at  the 
same  time  remember  that  thou  art  accepted,  belov- 
ed, justified,  and  blessed  in  Christ ;  and  in  this  dis« 
position  quietly  wait  the  return  of  some  new  drops 
of  living  water  and  grace  ;  but  be  also  sure  after- 
wards to  cherish  and  make  a  right  use  of  them. 
Thus  thou  shalt  be  like  a  watered  garden.  Isa. 
Iviii.  11. 

For  thee  T  thirst,  O  Lord,  I  mourn ; 
When  will  thy  smiling  face  return  ? 
Shall  all  my  joys  on  earth  remove, 
And  God  for  ever  hide  his  love  ? 

ANSWER. 

Ho!  ye  that  pant  for  living  streams, 

And  pine  away  and  die  ; 
Here  you  may  quench  your  raging  thirst. 

With  springs  that  never  dry. 
Rivers  of  love  and  mercy,  here, 

In  a  rich  ocean  join  : 
Salvation  in  abundance  flows. 

Like  floods  of  milk  and  wind. 


JULY  10.  199> 

My  soul  waiteth  upon  God;  from  him  comes  my 
salvation;  he  only  is  my  defence^  I  shall  not 
he  greatly  moved.  Therefore,  trust  in  him  at 
all  times,  ye  people,  pour  out  your  hearts  be- 
fore him,,  God  is  a  refuge  for  us.  Psal.  Ixii. 
2,  3,  9. 

The  more  quiet,  patient,  believing,  faithful,  ar- 
dent, and  single  v/e  are,  the  sooner  we  shall  see  the 
salvation  and  victory  of  the  Lord.  Double  minded 
souls  have  the  gieatest  struggle,  and  the  slothful 
must  tarry  the  longer.  Sometimes  it  is  true,  though 
we  are  faithful,  yet  we  must  cry  out,  O  Lord 
hoto  long  ?  Psal.  vi.  4.  But  nevertheless  he  always 
hears  and  delivers  us,  though  we  do  not  see  and 
feel  it  directly,  but  seem  to  suffer  continually.  In 
heaven,  we  shall  certainly  see  it,  and  reap  the 
blessed  fruits  of  all  our  afflictions  and  prayers. 

My  spirit  looks  to  God  alone ; 
My  rock  and  refuge  is  his  throne : 
In  all  my  fears,  in  all  my  straits, 
My  soul  on  his  salvation  waits. 

Trust  him  ye  saints,  in  all  your  ways, 
Pour  out  your  hearts  before  his  face  : 
When  helpers  fail  and  foes  invade, 
God  is  our  all-sufficient  aid. 

For  sovereign  power  reigns  not  alone? 
Grace  is  a  partner  of  the  throne  : 
Thy  grace  and  justice,  mighty  Lord, 
Shall  well  divide  our  last  reward. 


200  JULY  11. 

My  soul  fainteth  for  thy  salvation*  My  soul  is 
continually  in  thy  hand.  Uphold  me  accord-- 
ing  to  thy  word,  that  I  may  live,  and  let  me 
not  be  ashamed,  of  my  hope.  Look  thou  upon 
me  and  be  merciful  vnto  me,  as  thou  used  to  do 
unto  those  that  love  thy  name,  Psal.  cxix.  81, 
109,  116,  132. 

O  Lord.  I  love  thy  name  also,  since  thou  art 
called  merciful,  gracious,  long  suffering,  and  even 
the  Lord  our  righteousness  ;  and  therefore,  I  de- 
pend upon  nothing  of  my  own,  but  throw  myself 
entirely  upon  thy  free  grace  and  righteousness, 
which  keeps  me  alone  in  peace.  Without  thee> 
I  am  ignorant  and  weak,  and  Satan,  being  as  wick- 
ed as  he  is  cunning,  what  would  become  of  me,  if 
I  was  not  kept  and  preserved  by  thee  ? 

The  arms  of  everlasting  love 

Beneath  my  soul  be  placed  ; 
And  on  the  rock  of  ages,  get 

My  slipp'ry  footsteps  fast. 

The  city  of  my  blest  abode 

Is  wall'd  around  with  grace, 
Salvation  for  a  bulwark  stands 

To  shield  the  sacred  place. 

Satan  may  vent  his  sharpest  spite, 

And  all  his  legions  roar  ; 
Almighty  mercy  guards  my  life. 

And  bounds  his  raging  power. 


JULY  12.  201 

Mine  iniquities  are  gone  over  my  head  as  a  hea- 
vy burden,  they  are  too  heavy  for  me,  Psal. 
xxxviii.  4.  Divine  answer.  Behold  the  Lamb 
of  God,  which  talces  away  the  sins  of  the 
world.  John,  i.  29.  Behold  I  have  caused 
thine  iniquity  to  pass  from  thee,  Zech.  iii.  4. 

Christ  thy  surety,  has  taken  away  thy  sins  already 
from  thee  in  one  clay,  by  one  offering  ;  and  he  hav- 
ing satisfied  divine  justice,  and  being  cleared  and 
absolved  from  all  sins  as  the  surety,  thou  hast  in  him 
received  the  same  favour.  The  chief  absolution 
is  passed  already,  of  which  thou  hast  also  been 
made  partaker  in  baptism.  And  though  the  pre- 
sumptuous have  no  sufficient  reason  to  beheve  the 
forgiveness  of  their  sins  on  that  account ;  yet  the 
faithful  have  none  to  doubt  of  it,  the  word  of  God 
removing  all  their  doubts. 

Here,  sinners,  you  may  heal  your  wounds, 

And  wipe  your  sorrows  dry, 
Trust  in  the  mighty  Saviour's  name, 

And  you  shall  never  die. 

So  strange,  so  boundless  was  the  love 

That  pited  dying  men, 
The  father  sent  his  equal  Son, 

To  give  them  life  again. 

See,  dearest  Lord,  our  willing  souls 

Accept  thine  offered  grace, 
We  bless  the  great  Redeemer's  love, 

And  give  the  Father  praise. 


205  JULY  13. 

My  Beloved  is  mine  and  I  am  his.  Cant.  ii.  16. 
Divine  answer.  /  will  betroth  thee  unto  me 
for  ever,  yea,  I  will  betroth  thee  unto  me  in 
righteousness  and  in  judgment,  and  in  lov- 
ing kindness.  I  will  even  betroth  thee  unto 
unto  me  in  faithfulness,  and  thou  shalt  know 
the  Lord,  Hos.  ii.  19,20. 

By  faith  in  the  blood  of  Christ,  we  are  accepted, 
and  closely  united  to  him  as  our  bridegroom.  By 
that,  we  daily  eat  his  flesh,  drink  his  blood,  and  are 
sprinkled  all  over,  since  even  the  best  of  our  works, 
our  prayers,  and  other  performances,  still  want  it 
continually  ;  as  appears  from  the  type,  Heb.  ix. 
19,  20,  21,  where  it  is  said,  that  "  all  the  vessels 
of  the  ministry,  and  even  the  book  was  sprinkled.'* 

Hark !  the  Redeemer  from  on  high, 
Sweetly  invites  his  favourites  nigh, 
From  caves  of  ddrkness  and  of  doubt, 
He  gently  speaks  and  calls  us  out. 

My  sister  and  my  spouse  he  cries, 
Bound  to  my  heart  by  various  ties, 
Thy  powerful  love  my  heart  detains 
In  strong  delight  and  pleasing  chains. 

Dear  Lord,  our  thankful  heart  receives 
The  hope  thine  invitation  gives : 
To  thee,  our  joyful  lips  shall  raise 
The  voice  of  prayer,  the  voice  of  praise. 

I  am  my  love's,  and  he  is  mine, 

Our  hearts,  our  hopes,  our  passions  join. 

Nor  let  a  motion  nor  a  word, 

Nor  thought  arise  to  grieve  my  Lord* 


cTULY  14.  2aS 

When  thou  saidst,  Seek  ye  my  face ;  my  heart  said 

unto  thee,  thy  face,  Lord,  will  I  seek.     Psal. 
|;  xxvii.  8.     lam  thine,  save  me ;  for  I  have  sought 

thy  precepts.     Psal.  cxix.  74.     Divine  answer. 

They  who  seek  me  early  shall  find  me.     Prov.  vii. 

17.     The  humble  shall  see  this  and  he  glad,  and 

your  hearts  shall  live  that  seek  God.     Psal.  Ixix. 

33.     Seek  and  you  shall  find.      Matt.   vii.   8. 

And  whosoever  finds  me,  finds  life.     Prov.  viii. 

35.     For  lam  the  Life.     John,  xiv.  6. 

Such  arguments  and  entreaties  we  may  use  with 
God  to  strengthen  us  in  faith  ;  he  does  not  want 
them,  but  we  do,  and  he  is  well  pleased  when  we 
take  him  at  his  word.  For  if  we  would  not  draw 
near  to  God  in  prayer,  till  our  hearts  are  quicken- 
ed, perhaps  we  might  never  come  to  it.  Therefore 
we  must  not  indulge  ourselves,  in  such  a  state  of 
dullness,  but  rather  put  a  force  upon  ourselves,  and 
pray  against  our  natural  inclination.  Being  faith- 
ful and  instant  in  this,  we  will  certainly  have  our 
affections  warmed,  and  great  power  and  blessings 
given  from  above,  that  our  hearts  may  live.  O 
Lord,  I  plead  thy  precious  promises  and  all  thy  for- 
mer deliverances.  Thou  canst  not  deny  thy  word, 
I  am  a  child  of  thy  covenant,  and  thou  hast  laid 
thyself  under  an  obligation  to  help  me  out,  nay,  to 
abide,  to  live  and  reign  in  me,  that  I  may  not 
grieve  and  lose  thee  any  more  by  my  sins. 

Lord,  I  address  thy  heavenly  throne : 

Call  me  a  child  of  thine  ; 
Send  down  the  spirit  of  thy  Son 

To  iorm  my  heart  divine. 


204  JULY  15. 

O  my  God,  I  trust  in  thee-,  let  me  not  he  ashamed, 
Psal.  XXV.  2.  In  thee,  O  Lord,  do  I  hope ;  thou 
wilt  hear,  O  Lord,  my  God.  Psal.  xxxviii.  15.  Let 
none  that  loait  on  thee  be  ashamed.  Psal.  xxv.  3. 
Divine  answer.  Hope  makes  not  ashamed.  Rom. 
V.  5.  They  that  trust  in  the  Lord  shall  be  as 
mount  Zioa,  which  abideth  forever.  Psal.  cxxv.  1. 
Who  was  ever  put  to  shame  that  trusted  in  God? 
Sirach,  ii.  II.  Pray  for  help,  and  though  it  tarry  ^ 
wait  for  it ;  because  it  tvill  surely  come,  it  will 
not  tarry.  Heb.  ii.  3.  Then  thou  shalt  know,  6^c. 
Isa.  xlix.  33. 

Does  God  delay  his  promises,  and  the  enemy 
raise  a  suspicion  against  his  faithfulness?  remem- 
ber that  it  is  said,  Wait.  Thou  art  still  in  being, 
and  shalt  be  a  witness  to  God's  faithfulness.  If  he 
was  not  faithful  and  true,  he  could  not  be  God. 
His  faithfulness  is  eternal,  and  as  sure  and  great  as 
himself;  above  all  our  thoughts.  Thou  shalt  at 
last,  the  more  gloriously  experience  it,  and  not  be 
ashamed  ;  sooner  shall  heaven  and  earth  pass  away. 
**He  keeps  the  truth  for  ever."  Psal.  cxlvi.  6. 

Happy  the  man  whose  hopes  rely 
On  Israel's  God  :  he  made  the  sky, 
And  earth,  and  seas,  with  all  their  train ; 
And  none  shall  find  his  promise  vain  : 

His  truth  for  ever  stands  secure, 
He  saves  the  oppress'd,  he  feeds  the  poor, 
He  sends  the  lab'ring  conscience  peace, 
And  grants  the  pris'ner  gweet  releaic. 


JULY  16  205 

Man,  thou  must  die,  Sirach,  xiv.  18.  There- 
fore, be  not  deceived,  God  is  not  mocked  ;  for 
vjhat  amansovjs  that  shall  he  reap.  Gal  vi.  7. 
A  certain  true  and  faithful  servant  of  God  de- 
clared upon  his  death  bed,  that  the  last  thing-, 
should  be  more  frequently  laid  before  people  and  se- 
riously pressed  upon  them.  This  was  the  practice  of 
St.  Paul  himself,  though  he  was  of  an  uncommon 
evangelical  spirit.  Acts,  xxiv.  25.  Such  repre- 
sentations may  be  very  useful  at  this  time,  and  per- 
haps still  more  for  the  time  to  come,  to  restrain  that 
growing  levity  and  indifference  in  spiritual  and 
gospel  matters.  For  this  false,  and  unevangehcal 
method  of  playing  with  the  wounds  of  Christ,  does 
not  stand  its  ground,  nor  will  it  avail  us  in  the  hour 
of  death.  Many  will  then  find  their  joy  changed 
into  heaviness,  and  others  their  heaviness  into  joy. 

Life  is  the  time  to  serve  the  Lord, 

The  time  to  ensure  the  great  reward  ; 

And  while  the  lamp  holds  out  to  burn, 

The  vilest  sinner  may  return. 

The  living  know  that  they  must  die, 

But  all  the  dead  forgotten  lie, 

Their  mem'ry  and  their  sense  is  gone 

Alike  unknowing  and  unknown. 

Their  hatred  and  their  love  is  lost, 

Their  envy  buried  in  the  dust : 

They  have  no  share  in  all  that's  done 

Beneath  the  circuit  of  the  sun. 

There  are  no  acts  of  pardon  pass'd 

In  the  cold  grave  to  which  we  haste  ; 

But  darkness,  death,  and  long  despair 

Reign  in  eternal  silence  there. 
18 


206  JULY  17. 

Moses  said,  there  shall  not  a  hoof  be  left  hehind* 
And  the  Egyptians  were  urgent  upon  the  people, 
that  they  might  send  them  out  of  the  land  in  haste. 
Exod.  X.  26,  and  xii.  33.  Behold  we  have  for- 
saken all,  and  followed  thee.  Whosoever  he  be 
of  you,  that  forsakes  not  all  that  he  has,  he  can- 
not be  my  disciple.  Luke,  xiv.  34.  And  they 
that  rejoice,  as  though  they  rejoiced  not.  1  Cor. 
vii.  29,  3L 

Christ  being  my  all,  self-denial  and  following 
him  is  so  easy  and  pleasant,  that  there  is  no  need  to 
make  a  particular  work  and  duty  of  it.  And  if  I 
am  his  property  and  have  entirely  devoted  myself 
to  him,  I  neither  dare,  nor  will  reserve  any  thing 
for  myself ;  and  yet  I  have  no  reason  to  be  troubled 
for  any  thing,  but  can  safely  trust  and  leave  all  to 
him.  He  will  certainly  take  care  of  me,  protect 
and  perfect  me  in  the  best  manner. 
How  can  I  sink  with  such  a  prop 

As  my  eternal  God, 
Who  bears  the  earth's  huge  pillars  up, 

And  spreads  the  heaven's  abroad. 
How  can  I  die  while  Jesus  lives, 

Who  rose  and  left  the  dead  ? 
Pardon  and  grace  my  soul  receives 

From  mine  exalted  head. 
All  that  I  am  and  all  I  have 

Shall  be  for  ever  tliine, 
Whate'er  my  duty  bids  me  give, 

My  cheerful  hands  resign. 
Yet  if  I  might  make  some  reserve, 

And  duty  did  not  call, 
I  love  my  God  with  zeal  so  great 
That  I  should  give  him  all. 


JULY  18.  207 

Unto  thee,  O  Lord,  do  I  lift  up  my  soul.  Psal. 
XXV.  I.  Divine  answer.  Thou  hast  heard  the 
desire  of  the  humble,  thou  wilt  prepare  their 
hearts,  thou  wilt  cause  thine  ear  to  hear. 
Psal.  X.  7. 

Faith  only  desires  Christ  and  does  neither  delight 
in  the  gain,  nor  grieve  much  in  the  loss  of  tempo- 
ral things  ;  but  as  Luther  says,  "fciith  through  an 
earnest  desire  for  Christ  and  his  word,  rises  above 
all  creatures,  and  overcomes  all  worldly  pleasures 
and  fears."  And  this  being  the  work  of  God,  will 
certainly  be  accomplished  ;  nay,  is  looked  upon  as 
really  accomplished,  already  in  our  own  desires  and 
endeavours  after  it ;  in  the  same  manner  as  evil 
desires  are  reckoned  for  deeds  in  the  sight  of  Godji. 
though  they  never  proceed  to  overt  acts. 

I  cannot  bear  thine  absence  Lord, 

My  life  expires  if  thou  depart : 
Be  thou,  my  heart,  still  near  my  God, 

And  thou,  my  God,  be  near  my  heart 

I  was  not  born  for  earth  and  sin. 
Nor  can  I  live  on  things  so  vile  j 

Yet  I  will  stay  my  Father's  time, 

And  hope  and  wait  for  heaven  awhile^ 

Then,  dearest  Lord,  in  thine  embracej 
Let  me  resign  my  fleeting  breath, 

And  with  a  smile  upon  my  face, 
Pass  the  important  hour  of  deaths 


208  JULY  19. 

Draw  near  in  the  day  that  I  call  upon  thee;  say 
unto  me  fear  not.  O  Lord,  plead  thou  the 
cause  of  my  soul,  and  redeem  my  life.  Lam. 
iii.  57,  58.  God's  answer.  Fear  not,  for  lam 
with  thee.  Isa.  xliii.  5.  I  am  he  that  lives  and 
was  dead,  and  behold  I  am  alive  forevermore^ 
and  have  the  keys  of  hell  and  death.  Rev.  i.  1 8. 

'<  Christ  has  overcome  death,  led  captivity  cap- 
tive, and  by  one  offering,  perfected  for  ever  them 
that  are  sanctified."  Heb.  x.  14.  Whoever  leaves 
this  vi^orld,  believing  in  him,  being  perfected  already, 
has  nothing  to  fear  after  death.  O  !  my  heavenly 
father,  grant  that  the  imperfect  work  of  sanctifi- 
cation  may  humble  me  much  :  yet  let  it  cause  no 
fear  of  death,  or  disturb  my  filial  confidence  ;  since 
this  does  not  depend  on  any  particular  degree  of 
holiness  but  only  on  my  being  in  Christ,  and  being 
adopted  through  him,  which  the  weakest  child, 
as  well  as  the  strongest  may  boldly  believe ;  having 
both,  like  right,  like  grace,  and  like  pardon.  Being 
therefore  a  child,  I  am  an  heir,  and  shall  find  life 
and  deliverance  in  death. 

Exalted  at  his  Father's  side 

Sits  our  victorious  Lord  : 
To  heaven  and  hell  his  hands  divide 

The  vengeance  or  reward. 

The  saints  from  his  propitious  eye 

Await  their  sev'ral  crowns, 
And  all  the  sons  of  darkness,  flj 

The  terror  of  his  frowns. 


JULY  20.  209 

Take  the  sword  of  the  Spirit,  which  is  the  word 
of  God,  praying  always  with  all  prayer  and 
supplication  in  (he  Spirit,  E-ph.  vi.  17.  18. 
Continuing  instant  in  prayer.  Rom.  xii.  12. 
For  every  one  that  asketh  receiveth,  (out  of 
the  fullness  of  Christ,  grace  for  grace,)  and 
he  that  seeketh  finds,  and  to  him  that  knock- 
eth  it  shall  be  opened;  for  if  ye,  being  evil, 
know  how  to  give  good  gifts  unto  your  chil- 
dren; how  much  mure  shall  your  heavenly 
Father,  give  the  holy  Spirit  to  them  that  ask 
him!  Luke,  xi.  10,  13. 

A  sword  is  necessary  for  battle  ;  and  if  I  use  the 
word  of  God  against  sin  by  faith  in  Christ,  with 
prayer,  I  encounter  it  at  last  effectually  ;  and  in  the 
mean  time  I  engage  in  this  conflict  willingly,  at 
least  as  to  the  Spirit ;  for  as  long  as  we  remain  in 
the  flesh  and  are  not  all  spirit,  our  combats  with 
sin  is  made  with  some  backwardness,  which  if  we 
did  not  strive  against,  many  prayers  and  other  good 
actions  would  entirely  be  left  undone.  May  the 
Lord  grant  us  all  a  mortal  hatred  against  sin,  and 
true  earnestness  in  the  conflict  with  it. 

These  weapons  of  the  holy  war, 
Of  what  almighty  force  they  are  ! 
To  make  our  stubborn  passions  bow, 
And  lay  the  proudest  rebel  low. 

Great  King  of  grace,  my  heart  subdue  ; 
I  would  be  led  in  triumph  too, 
A  willing  captive  to  my  Lord,  ^ 

And  sing  the  vict'ries  of  his  word. 
18* 


210  JULY  21. 

TakCf  eat ;  this  is  my  body;  and  drinJc  ye  all  of 
it,  for  this  is  my  blood  of  the  New  Testament, 
which  is  shed  for  many  for  the  remission  of 
sins.    Matt.  xxvi.  26. 

This  supper,  as  Luther  observes,  requires  nothing 
of  us  but  gives  every  thing  freely  ;  we  bring  no- 
thing with  us,  but  receive  every  thing  there  ;  we 
are  not  to  prepare  and  adorn  ourselves ;  but  rather 
to  come  naked,  poor,  and  miserable.  For  why  do 
we  go  to  the  sacrament  ?  but  that  we  may  learn 
truly  to  believe  that  Christ  died  for  our  sins.  This 
is  the  greatest  art  and  principal  part  of  Christianity, 
the  entire  work  of  God,  which  humbles  us  most, 
but  at  the  same  time  affords  the  greatest  peace  and 
strength.  Some  may  vainly  imagine  to  have  learnt 
this  well  enough,  but  real  Christians  must  make 
it  their  particular  study  to  learn  this  lesson  better 
every  day. 

Lord !  how  divine  thy  comforts  are. 

How  heav'nly  is  the  place. 
Where  Jesus  spreads  the  sacred  feast 

Of  his  redeeming  grace  ! 

There  the  rich  bounties  of  our  God 

And  sweetest  glory  shine  : 
There  Jesus  says,  that  I  am  his, 

And  my  beloved's  mine. 

What  shall  we  pay  our  heav'nly  King 

For  grace  so  vast  as  this? 
He  brings  our  pardon  to  our  eyes, 

And  seals  it  with  a  kiss. 


JULY  22.  21  i 

Take  therefore  the  talent  from  him:  and  give  it  unto 
him  that  hath  ten  talents,  for  unto  him  that  hath 
shall  be  given,  and  he  shall  have  abundance.  But 
from  him  that  hath  not  shall  be  taken  away  even 
that  which  he  hath.  Matt.  xxv.  28,  29.  He  that 
is  faithful  in  that  which  is  least,  is  faithful  also 
in  much-,  and  he  that  is  unjust  in  tJie  leasts  is  also 
unjust  inmuch.  Luke,  xvi.  10. 

God  requires  nothing  but  faithfulness  ;  with  this 
thou  needest  not  to  fear  any  thing,  nor  to  say,  if 
only  such  and  such  a  thing  was  not  in  the  way  ;  but 
rather  confidently  believe  that  all  is  thine,  and  will 
work  together  for  thy  good.  Nay,  what  seems  to 
be  most  dangerous  may  perhaps  prove  most  advan- 
tageous ;  so  that  if  it  were  wanting,  it  would  be 
the  same  as  if  the  clock  was  without  its  weights. 
By  fidelity  our  gifts  and  graces  will  be  increased* 
and  that  which  is  bad,  turned  into  good  ;  which 
made  a  certain  faithful  servant  of  the  Lord  in  his 
last  moments  call  upon  all  the  children  of  God, 
*'  to  be  only  faithful,  since  God  is  certainly  faithful 
on  his  part."  Whoever  therefore,  desires  to  be  rich 
in  grace,  let  him  mind  these  words  of  a  dying  experi- 
enced Christian,  nay,  of  Christ  himself.  Whatever 
the  Lord  gives  us  to  know,  we  must  be  careful  to 
bring  it  directly  into  practice,  by  watching,  prayer, 
and  wrestling,  if  we  will  be  called  faithful,  and  ar- 
rive to  a  state  of  true  life  and  power.  Thus  for 
one  drachm  of  fidelity  we  shall  certainly  be  reward- 
ed, even  in  this  life,  but  much  more  in  heaven,  with 
many  talents,  and  also  receive  that  which  bai 
been  buried  by  a  slothful  servant. 


212  JULY  23. 

Not  unto  lis,  O  Lord,  not  unto  us,  but  unto  thy 
name  be  the  glory.    Psal.  cxv.  1 . 

How  little  reason  have  we  to  glory  in  any  thing 
of  our  own,  since  nothing  but  sin  is  ours,  which 
even  defiles  that  which  is  of  God.  O  Lord,  grant 
that  I  may  always  give  thee  thy  own  ;  that  1  may 
know  of  no  delight  and  glory  but  in  thee,  and  have 
no  other  design  and  request  but  to  live  in  godly 
simplicity,  innocence  and  quietness,  for  "  he  that 
walketh  uprightly,  walketh  surely."  Prov.  x.  9. 
And  the  best  method  to  have  much  confidence  is  to 
have  a  single  eye  which  does  not  seek  its  own.  For 
whence  is  all  this  disquietude  of  mind,  but  from 
our  own  lusts,  and  unmortified  affections,  which 
are  like  the  troubled  sea  ;  and  what  affords  more 
peace  than  to  have  nothing  at  heart  but  the  glory 
of  God,  and  to  count  ourselves  worthy  of  no  good. 
Thus  we  shall  be  enabled  to  call  our  misfortunes 
a  happiness,  and  be  satisfied  and  praise  the  Lord  as 
much  when  he  has  taken  something  from  us,  as  if 
he  had  gmnted  a  blessmg,  being  sure  that  it  tends 
to  our  good  and  to  his  glory,  which  he  knows  best 
how  to  promote,  and  that  nothing  but  sin  can  make 
us  unhappy  and  miserable. 

Great  God  !  how  infinite  art  thou  ! 

What  worthless  worms  are  we  ! 
Let  the  whole  race  of  creatures  bow, 

And  pay  their  praise  to  thee. 

Our  hves  through  various  scenes  are  drawn> 

And  vex'd  with  trifling  cares, 
While  thine  eternal  thought  moves  on 

Thine  undisturb'd  affairs. 


JULY  24.  213 

No  man  can  serve  two  masters.  Matt.  vi.  24. 

O  Lord !  as  thou  hast  given  thy  whole  self  to 
me,  how  shall  I  dare  to  offer  thee  only  the  half  of 
my  heart  ?  O  !  no,  I  am  wholly  thine.  Here  I  re- 
sign my  body,  soul,  and  spirit,  again  into  thine 
hands  for  an  entire  sacrifice.  Grant  that  I  may  al- 
ways be  constant,  pure,  and  single  towards  thee, 
Amen  and  Amen. 

How  vain  are  all  things  here  below  ! 

How  false,  and  yet  how  fair  ! 
Each  pleasure  has  its  poison  too, 

And  every  sweet  a  snare. 

The  brightest  things  below  the  sky 

Give  but  a  flatt'ring  light ; 
We  should  suspect  some  danger  nigh. 

Where  we  possess  delight. 

Our  dearest  joys  and  nearest  friends. 

The  partners  of  our  blood, 
How  they  divide  our  wav'ring  minds, 

And  leave  but  half  for  God. 

The  fondness  of  a  creature's  love, 
How  strong  it  strikes  the  sense : 

Thither  the  strong  affections  move, 
Nor  can  we  call  them  thence. 

Dear  Saviour,  let  thy  beauties  be 

My  soul's  eternal  food  ; 
And  grace  command  my  heart  away 

From  all  created  good. 


214  JULY  25. 

But  we  all  with  open  face  beholding  as  in  a  glass  the 
glory  of  the  Lord-,  are  changed  into  the  same  im- 
age, from  glory  to  glory.  2  Cor.  iii.  18.  There- 
fore, let  this  mind  be  in  you  which  was  in  Christ 
Jesus.  Phil.  ii.  5.  For  he  has  left  us  an  exam- 
ple, that  we  should  follow  his  steps.  1  Pet.  ii.  21. 

If,  before  we  say  or  do  any  thing,  we  would  but 
always  consider  whether  it  was  agreeable  to  the 
pattern  of  Christ,  a  multitude  of  sins  would  not 
be  committed.  O  Lord,  however  miserable  1  am, 
when  I  humble  myself  before  thee  with  a  filial  con- 
fidence, looking  upon  myself  as  united  to  thee,  and 
as  the  vilest  of  sinners ;  depending  only  upon  thy 
free  grace,  I  enjoy  peace.  Grant,  therefore,  O  my 
God,  that  this  beholding  of  thee,  may  be  my  con- 
stant exercise,  and  that  by  this  means  I  may  be 
strengthened  cheerfully  to  follow  thy  pattern  daily, 
to  be  changed  more  and  more  into  the  glorious  im- 
age of  thy  love,  patience,  and  humility,  and  thus  to 
be  truly  prepared  for  .eternal  life. 

My  dear  Redeemer,  and  my  Lord ! 
I  read  my  duty  in  thy  word  : 
But  in  thy  life  the  law  appears, 
Drawn  out  in  living  characters. 

Such  was  thy  truth  and  such  thy  zeal, 
Such  defrence  to  thy  Father's  will, 
Such  love  and  meekness  so  divine, 
I  would  transcribe,  and  make  them  mine. 

Be  thou  my  pattern,  make  me  bear 
More  of  thy  gracious  image  here  ; 
Then  God  the  judge  shall  own  my  name. 
Among  the  followers  of  the  Lamb. 


JULY  26.  215 

Being  justified  by  faiths  we  have  peace  with 
God  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Rom. 
V.';  1 .  For  he  is  our  peace.  Eph.  ii.  1 1 .  There 
is  now  no  condemnation  to  them  who  are  in 
Christ  Jesus,  who  walk  not  after  the  flesh, 
but  after  the  spirit.  Rom.  viii.  1. 

A  justified  soul  must  not  only  study  to  be  dili- 
gent and  punctual  in  the  duties  of  holiness,  which 
may  turn  into  a  legal  working,  and>  bring  it  under 
the  law  again,  but  must  before  all  things  continu- 
ally endeavour  to  enjoy  the  peace  of  Christ  and 
the  blessings  of  salvation,  that  its  sanctification 
may  proceed  from  faith,  and  be  of  the  right  kind. 
We  must  first  receive  Christ,  and  be  strong  in  faith, 
then  shall  we  be  able  to  give,  to  love,  and  to  work. 
O  may  the  Author  and  Finisher  of  faith  give  me 
always  such  a  faith. 

Our  guilty  spirits  dread 

To  meet  the  wrath  of  heaven, 
But  in  his  righteousness  arrayed 

We  see  our  sins  forgiven. 

Unholy  and  impure 

Are  all  our  thoughts  and  ways, 
His  hands  infected  nature  cures 

With  sanctifying  grace. 

Lord,  we  adore  thy  ways, 

To  bring  us  near  to  God, 
Thy  sovereign  power,  thy  heafing  grace, 
'And  thine  atoning  blood. 


216  JULY  27. 

Though  I  walk  through  the  valley  of  the  shadow 
ofdeathf  I  will  fear  no  evil,  for  thou  art 
with  me,  th^  rod  and  thy  staff  comfort  me. 
Psal.  xxiii.  4.  See  also,  Exod.  xiv.  of  the 
deliverance  of  the  Israelites  and  the  destruc- 
of  the  Egyptians  in  the  Red  Sea. 

To  rejoice  in  the  light  is  certainly  most  agreea- 
ble, but  not  always  so  profitable  to  every  one,  as 
sometimes  to  walk  in  the  dark,  nay  in  the  valley  of 
the  shadow  of  death.  In  this  condition  some  are 
more  humble  and  cautious  than  in  the  former,  and 
the  preciousness  of  the  glimpses  of  grace  is  more 
valued.  O  Lord,  I  will  willingly  rely  upon  thy 
bare  word,  even  when  deprived  of  sensible  com- 
forts ;  grant  only  that  in  death  I  may  be  refreshed 
by  the  light  of  thy  countenance.  Amen.  Yes,  thou 
hast  promised,  that  the  righteous  shall  have  ho^ie  in 
his  death.  Prov.  xiv.  32. 

Death  cannot  make  our  souls  afraid, 

If  God  be  with  us  there; 
We  may  walk  through  its  darkest  shade, 

And  never  yield  to  fear. 

May  I  but  climb  to  Pisgah's  top, 

And  view  the  promis'd  land, 
My  flesh  itself  shall  long  to  drop, 

And  pray  for  the  command. 

Clasp'd  in  my  heavenly  Father's  arms, 

I  shall  forget  my  breath, 
And  lose  my  life  among  the  charmi 

Of  so  diVib6  a^  death. 


JULY  28.  217 

Who  shall  set  scourges  over  my  thoughts^  and 
the  discipline  of  wisdom  over  mine  hearth  that 
:>^.  they  spare  me  not  for  mine  ignorance ,  and 
^  it  pass  not  by  my  sins,  Sirach,  xxiii.  2. 

Thoughts  are  by  no  means  toll-free  in  the  sight 
of  God,  and  evil  thoughts  do  not  always  proceed 
even  in  the  hearts  of  believers  from  injection  of  Sa- 
tan, but  also  very  often  from  their  own  natural 
corruption,  which  ought  to  humble  them  the  more. 
Mark,  vii.  21,  22,  23.  Being  therefore  always  in 
danger  from  the  darkness  and  wickedness  of  my 
heart,  I  have  always  need  to  be  employed  in  the 
word  and  in  prayer.  Assist  my  weakness,  O  Lord, 
that  by  the  inspiration  of  thy  holy  Spirit,  I  may 
always  think  right,  and  put  in  mind  every  thing  in 
its  due  season. 

Sin,  like  a  venomous  disease, 

Infects  our  vital  blood  : 
The  only  balm  is  sov'reign  grace, 

And  the  physician  God. 
Madness  by  nature  reigns  within, 

The  passions  burn  and  rage, 
Till  God's  own  Son  with  skill  divine 

The  inward  fire  assuage. 
We  Hck  the  dust,  we  grasp  the  wind 

And  solid  good  despise  : 
Such  is  the  folly  of  the  mind, 

Till  Jesus  makes  us  wise. 
We  give  our  souls  the  wounds  they  feek 

We  drink  the  pois'nous  gall ; 
And  rush  with  fury  down  to  hell, 

But  heaven  prevents  the  fall. 
19 


218  JULY  29. 

Open  thou  mine  eyes,  that  I  may  see  wonderful  things 
out  of  thy  law.  Psal.  cxix.  18.  Lighten  mine  eyes, 
lest  I  sleep  the  sleep  of  death.  Psal.  xiii.  3.  For 
with  thee  is  the  fountain  of  life,  in  thy  light  shall 
we  see  light.  Psal.  xxxvi.  9.  Divine  answer.  I 
am  come  a  light  into  the  world')  that  whosoever 
believes  in  me  shall  not  abide  in  darkness.  John, 
xii.  46 .  The  Lord  opens  the  eyes  of  the  blind.  Psal. 
cxlvi.  8. 

Many  imagine,  that  their  eyes  are  opened,  and 
that  they  have  clear  notions  of  religion  in  their 
heads  ;  but  they  see  just  like  Eve,  after  eating  the 
forbidden  fruit,  their  hearts  being  corrupted,  and 
destitute  of  simplicity,  a  most  essential  part  of  a 
Christian.  For  he  that  does  not  understand  the 
word  of  God  by  the  light  of  the  holy  Spirit,  through 
prayer  and  faith,  but  only  by  his  natural  reason, 
is  certainly  blind  still.  Rev.  iii.  17.  And  one  devil- 
ish and  plausible  temptation  to  error  and  sin,  is 
enough  to  break  the  strongest  chains  of  demonstra- 
tion, for  it  is  only  faith  that  gets  the  victory.  1 
John,  V.  4. 

The  souls  enlightened  from  above. 

With  joy  receive  the  word  ; 
They  see  that  wisdom,  power,  and  love 

Shines  in  their  dying  Lord. 
The  vital  savour  of  his  name 

Restores  their  fainting  breath  ; 
But  unbelief  perverts  the  same 

To  guilt,  despair,  and  death. 
Till  God  diffuse  his  graces  down, 

Like  showers  of  heavenly  rain, 
In  vain  Apollo  sows  the  ground, 

And  Paul  may  plant  in  vain. 


JULY  30.  .       219 

Without  me   ye   can  do  nothing.     Therefore, 
abide  in  me.     John,  xv.  4,  5. 

I  can  no  more  do  without  thee,  O  !  my  dear  Sa- 
viour, than  the  branch  can  without  the  vine  !  keep 
me,  therefore,  always  in  thee,  else  I  shall  have  re- 
course to  my  old  fmcied  stock  of  grace,  though  I 
have  been  a  thousand  times  convinced  of  my  in- 
sufficiency. May  I  never  be  left  in  the  least  thing 
to  my  own  strength,  but  be  directed,  assisted,  and 
blessed  by  thee  in  all  my  doings.  For  as  far  as  I 
trust  to  myself  I  am  distrustful  of  thee,  and  conse- 
quently weak  ;  and  on  the  other  hand,  the  more  I 
distrust  myself,  the  more  I  trust  to  thee,  and  will 
be  strengthened  and  blessed. 

Let  the  wild  leopards  of  the  wood 
Put  off  the  spots  that  nature  gives, 

Then  may  the  wicked  turn  to  God, 

And  change  their  temper  and  their  lives. 

As  well  as  may  Ethiopian  slaves, 

Wash  out  the  darkness  of  their  skin  ; 

The  dead  as  well  may  leave  their  graves, 
As  old  transgressors  cease  to  sin. 

Where  vice  has  held  its  empire  long, 
'Twill  not  endure  the  least  controul, 

None  but  a  power  divinely  strong 
Can  turn  the  current  of  the  soul. 

Great  God  !  I  own  thy  power  divine, 

That  works  to  change  this  heart  of  mine, 

I  would  be  formed  anew,  and  bless 
The  wonders  of  creating  grace. 


220  JULY  31. 

Offer  unto  God  thanksgivings  and  pay  thy  vows  un^' 
to  the  Most  High,  and  call  upon  me  in  the  day  of 
trouble.  I  will  deliver  thee  and  thou  shalt  glori- 
fy me ;  whoso  offers  praise  glorifies,  me ;  and  to 
him  that  ordereth  his  conversation  aright,  will  I 
show  the  salvation  of  God.  Psal.  1.  14,  15,  23. 
See  also,  Isa.  xxv.  9. 

Nothing  moves  God  more  to  hear  us,  than  the 
glorifying  him  by  faith  with  thanksgiving,  and  the 
keeping  up  a  filial  confidence  in  him ;  and  nothing 
quickeneth  us  more  in  faith,  than  the  finest  proofs 
of  the  hearing  of  our  prayers.  Thus  God  will  cer- 
tainly hear  and  dehver  us,  since  all  his  ways  are 
only  designed  to  strengthen  us  in  faith  and  to  save 
our  souls.  Why  need  we  then  be  afraid  in  times 
of  trouble  ?  Ought  we  not  rather  to  draw  near  to 
God  in  prayer  and  thanksgiving,  and  glorify  him 
even  before  hand,  confidently  believing  that  we 
shall  certainly  meet  with  new  deliverances  and 
quickenings  of  faith. 

To  what  a  stubborn  frame 

Has  sin  reduced  our  mind! 
What  strange  ungrateful  wretches  we, 

And  God  as  strangely  kind. 

Tjurn,  turn  us,  mighty  God, 

And  mould  our  souls  afresh  ; 
Break,  sov'reign  grace,  these  hearts  of  stone, 

And  give  us  hearts  of  flesh. 

Let  old  ingratitude 

Provoke  our  weeping  eyes, 
And  hourly  as  new  mercies  fall 

Let  hourly  thanks  arise. 


AUGUST  1.  221 

Say  ye  to  the  righteous,  that  it  shall  be  well 
with  them,  for  they  shall  eat  the  fruit  of  their 
doings.  Isa.  iii.  10.  Therefore,  marlc  the  per- 
fect man,  and  behold  the  upright;  for  the  end 
of  that  man  is  peace.  Psal.  xxxvii.  37. 

Many  are  for  having  that  first  which  is  to  be  ex- 
pected at  the  end  ;  they  would  be  glad  of  the 
triumph,  but  will  not  fight ;  the  waiting  for  the 
Lord  seems  to  them  too  long  ;  but  for  the  most  glo- 
rious promises  we  must  often  wait  the  longest.  Ja- 
cob was  obliged  to  wait  longer  than  Esau,  though 
he  had  greater  promises  than  he  ;  and  how  long 
was  it  before  the  promise  of  Christ,  the  greatest  of 
all,  was  accomplished  ?  It  is  therefore  well  to  be 
observed,  that  it  is  said  at  last,  '« It  shall  be  well 
with  the  righteous,  and  the  end  of  the  upright  is 
peace  ;"  when  his  faith,  love,  and  patience  are 
tried  enough  in  the  furnace  of  afflictions,  then  the 
acceptable  year  shall  come,  and  the  blessed  days  ef 
joy  will  appear. 

As  sparks  break  out  of  burning  coals. 

And  still  are  upwards  borne  ; 
So  grief  is  rooted  in  our  souls, 

And  man  grows  up  to  mourn. 
Yet  with  my  God  I  leave  my  cause, 

And  trust  his  promised  grace  ; 
He  rules  me  by  his  well-known  laws 

Of  love  and  righteousness. 
Not  all  the  pains  that  e'er  I  bore 

Shall  spoil  my  future  peace, 
For  death  and  hell  can  do  no  more 

Than  what  my  Father  please. 
19* 


222  AUGUST  2. 

Examine  me,  O  Lord,  and  prove  me;  try  my 
reins  and  my  heart.  Psal.  xxvi.  3.  Search 
me,  O  God,  and  Jcnow  my  heart,  and  see  if 
there  he  any  wicTced  way  in  me,  and  lead  me  in 
the  way  everlasting,  Psal.  cxxxix.  23,  24. 

Would  David,  the  man  after  God's  own  heart,  not 
trust  himself,  but  present  his  heart  to  the  Lord,  to  be 
tried  ;  much  less  can  or  ought  we  trust  our  hearts, 
*'  for  he  that  trusts  in  his  heart,"  says  the  wise  man, 
**  is  a  fool."  Prov.  xxxviii.  26.  We  have  more  rea- 
son to  be  afraid  of  our  own  hearts,  as  Luther  ob- 
servs,  than  of  all  other  enemies.  Have  we  so  much 
reason  to  be  jealous  of  our  own  hearts,  and  are  we  so 
much  in  the  dark  oftentimes  with  regard  to  the  time, 
the  circumstances,  and  even  the  reality  of  our  con- 
version ;  how  careful  ought  we  to  be  in  judging  of 
others  ?  This  is  assuming  the  office  of  the  Searcher 
of  hearts,  censuring  the  holy  Spirit,  and  modelling 
every  thing  to  one  manner  of  working.  By  experi- 
ence we  find,  that  it  is  not  with  one  as  another. 
Some  may  be  worked  upon  in  a  quite  different  man- 
ner from  what  we  have  been,  and  such  are  perhaps 
the  changes  even  in  one  hour,  that  the  end  may 
seem  to  be  no  more  than  the  beginning,  though  all 
goes  regular  in  the  sight  of  God.  This  should  check 
our  judgment  of  others,  and  make  us  cautious  in  ad- 
vising and  directing  them  in  matters  which  concern 
their  souls. 

Doth  secret  mischief  lurk  within? 
Do  I  indulge  some  unknown  sin  ? 
O  turn  my  feet  whene'er  I  stray, 
And  lead  me  in  the  perfect  way. 


AUGUST  3.  223 

Both  a  fountain  at  the  same  place  send  forth  sweet 
water  and  bitter?  James,  iii.  11.  What  con- 
cord has  Christ  with  Belial?  2  Cor.  vi.  16. 
Therefore,  have  no  felloivship  with  the  unfruitful 
works  of  darkness,  but  rather  reprove  them.  Eph. 
V.  11.  Be  not  partakers  of  other  men's  sins, 
1  Tim.  V.  22.  (Which  we  are,  in  showing  them 
the  least  countenance,  or  not  reproving  them.) 
But  if  a  man  purge  himself  from  these,  he  shall 
be  a  vessel  unto  honour-,  sanctified-)  and  meet  for 
the  Master's  use.  2  Tim.  ii.  21. 

Having,  therefore,  these  promises,  dearly  belov- 
ed, let  us  cleanse  ourselves  of  all  filthiness  of  flesh 
and  spirit,  perfecting  holiness  in  the  fear  of  God. 
2  Cor.  vii.  1 .  Else  we  draw  back  ;  since  there  is 
no  resting  or  standing  still  in  the  way  of  holiness. 
Let  me,  therefore,  daily  press  forward,  O  Lord,  so 
as  not  to  be  retarded  and  tired  out,  but  rather 
quickened  by  every  thing. 

Pure  are  the  joys  above  the  sky, 

And  all  the  region  peace ; 
No  wanton  lips  nor  envious  eye, 

Can  see  or  taste  the  bliss, 

Those  holy  gates  for  ever  bar 

Pollution,  sin,  and  shame ; 
None  shall  obtain  admittance  there, 

But  followers  of  the  Lamb. 

He  keeps  the  Father's  book  of  life, 
There  all  the  names  are  found ! 

The  hypocrite  in  vain  shall  strive 
To  tread  the  heavenly  ground. 


224  AUGUST  4- 

Strive  to  enter  in  at  the  straight  gate,  Luke, 
xiii.  24.  Work  out  your  salvation  with  fear 
and  trembling.  Phil.  ii.  12.  Forgetting  those 
things  that  are  behind,  I  reach  forth  unto 
those  things  which  are  before,  Phil.  iii.  13. 

He  that  feeds  only  upon  Christ,  and  yet,  with 
fear  and  trembling,  works  out  his  salvation,  is  in 
the  right  way ;  the  former  preventing  discourage- 
ment, and  the  latter  presumption.  Grant,  O  Lord, 
that  I  may  still  continue  to  fight  the  good  fight  of 
faith,  and  never  look  back  on  the  flesh-pots  of 
Egypt ;  and  rather  "choose  to  suffer  affliction  with 
the  people  of  God,  than  to  enjoy  the  pleasures  of 
sin  for  a  season."  May  nothing  but  the  painful  death 
which  thou  suffered  for  me,  have  always  a  place  in 
my  heart,  that  thereby  all  unbelief  and  slavish  fears 
may  be  destroyed  on  one  hand,  and  all  security  on 
the  other,  so  as  to  work  at  all  times  and  in  all  pla- 
ces with  holy  and  filial  reverence  as  in  thy  pre- 
sence. Amen. 

So  new-born  babes  desire  the  breast 

To  feed,  and  grow,  and  thrive, 
So  saints  with  joy  the  gospel  taste 

And  by  the  gospel  live. 

Grace,  like  an  uncorrupted  seed. 

Abides  and  reigns  within, 
Immortal  principles  forbid 

The  sons  of  God  to  sin. 

Not  by  the  terrors  of  a  slave 

Doth  they  perform  his  will, 
But  with  the  noblest  powers  they  have 

His  sweet  commands  fulfil. 


AUGUST  6.  225 

Create  in  me  a  dean  heart,  O  God,  and  renew 
a  right  spirit  within  me,  Psal.  li.  10.  See 
God's  answer,  Ezek.  xi.  19,  20. 

A  glorious  promise  !  but  you  may  rely  upon  it, 
O  my  soul,  and  plead  it  in  thy  prayer,  for  it  will 
certainly  be  accomplished.  "And  blessed  are  the 
pure  in  heart,  for  they  shall  see  God."  Matt.  v.  8. 
In  regard  to  justification  we  are  perfectly  clean  by 
Christ's  atonement ;  but  in  regard  to  sanctification 
our  hearts  are  not  perfectly  clean  yet ;  but  we  have 
still  need  to  pray,  ''  Create  in  me  a  clean  heart." 
Amen,  O  Lord !  may  thy  blood  and  spirit  cleanse 
and  sanctify  me  thoroughly  from  all  my  sins.  Amen. 

Blest  with  the  joys  of  innocence 

Adam  our  father  stood, 
Till  he  debas'd  his  soul  to  sense, 

And  eat  the  unlawful  food. 

Now  we  are  born  a  sensual  race 

To  sinful  joys  inchn'd  ; 
Reason  has  lost  its  native  place. 

And  flesh  enslaves  the  mind. 

Great  God,  renew  our  ruin'd  frame, 

Our  broken  powers  restore, 
Inspire  us  with  a  heavenly  flame, 

And  flesh  shall  reign  no  more. 

Eternal  spirit,  write  thy  law 

Upon  our  inward  parts  ; 
And  let  the  second  Adam  draw 

His  image  on  our  hearts. 


226  AUGUST  6. 

O  taste  and  see  that  the  Lord  is  good,  blessed  is  the 
man  that  trusteth  in  him.  Psal.  xxxiv.  8.  How 
excellent  is  thy  loving  kindness,  O  God!  therefore 
the  children  of  men,  put  their  trust  under  the  sha- 
dow of  thy  wings,  they  shall  be  abundantly  satis- 
Jled  with  the  fatness  of  thine  house,  and  they  shaU 
make  them  drink  of  the  river  of  thy  pleasure. 
Psal.  cxxxvi.  7,  8.  Heflls  the  hungry  with  good 
things ;  and  sends  the  rich  empty  away.  Luke,  i. 
53.  The  full  soul  loatheth  the  honey -comb;  but 
to  the  hungry  soul  every  bitter  thing  is  sweet. 
Prov.  xxvii.  7. 

As  it  is  no  subject  of  boasting  with  natural  men 
when  they  can  eat  and  drink,  stand  and  walk  ;  so 
neither  is  it  with  behevers,  who  can  spiritually  eat 
and  work.  May  the  Lord  give  us  all  such  a 
childlike,  hungry  disposition  of  mind  for  spiritual 
things.  Praise  be  to  him,  that  by  his  free  grace  he 
justifies,  saves,  and  abundantly  fills  our  poverty  with 
the  fatness  of  his  house. 

Blest  are  the  souls  that  thirst  for  grace, 
Hunger  and  long  for  righteousness  ; 
They  shall  be  well  supplied  and  fed     * 
With  living  streams  and  living  bread. 

Blest  Jesus,  what  delicious  fare! 
How  sweet  thy  entertainments  are  ! 
Never  did  angels  taste  above 
Redeeming  grace  and  dying  love. 

Haste  then,  but  with  a  smiling  face 
And  spread  a  table  of  thy  grace  ; 
Bring  down  a  taste  of  truth  divine, 
And  cheer  my  heart  with  sacred  wine. 


AUGUST  1.  227 

Bee  that  ye  walk  circumspectly,  not  as  fools, 
hut  as  wise.  Be  ye  therefore  not  unvAse,  hut 
understanding  what  the  will  of  the  Lord  is, 
Eph.  V.  15,  17.  That  ye  may  approve  things 
that  are  excellent,  that  ye  may  he  sincere  and 
without  offence,  Phil.  i.  10.  See  also,  Luke, 
xii.  36. 

Believers  have  nothing  more  at  heart  than  the 
will  of  God  ;  being  once  convinced  of  that,  they 
immediately  set  about  it  at  all  hazards ;  but  some- 
times they  cannot  come  to  a  thorough,  true  know- 
ledge of  the  same,  without  great  conflicts  and  pa- 
tience. Heb.  X.  36.  For  the  flesh  is  oftentimes 
exceeding  cunning  and  forward,  often  calling  out, 
"  But  howsoever  let  me  run."  2  Sam  xviii.  23. 
But  the  Lord  will  nevertheless  carry  them  through. 
Yes,  Lord!  this  thou  hast  done  innumerable  times. 
O  that  I  might  trust  thee  also  for  the  time  to  come, 
and  not  be  weak  in  faith  any  more. 

Beloved  self  must  be  denied, 

The  mind  and  will  renew'd, 
Passion  suppress'd  and  patience  tried. 

And  vain  desires  subdu'd. 

Flesh  is  a  dangerous  foe  to  grace, 

Where  it  prevails  and  rules  ; 
Flesh  must  be  humbled,  pride  abas'd, 

Lest  they  destroy  our  souls. 

Lord !  can  a  feeble  helpless  worm 

Fulfil  a  task  so  hard  ? 
Thy  grace  must  all  my  works  perform; 

And  give  thee  free  reward. 


228  AUGUST  8. 

If  ye  he  reproached  for  the  name  of  Christ,  happp 
are  ye,  for  the  Spirit  of  glory  and  of  God  resteth 
upon  you.  1  Pet.  iv.  14,  19.  Rejoice  ye  in  that 
day  and  leap  for  joy;  for,  behold  your  reward  is 
great  in  heaven.  Luke,  vi.  23.  Whosoever  shall 
confess  me  before  men,  him  will  I  confess  before 
my  Father  who  is  in  heaven,  but  whosoever  shall 
deny  me,  <S^c.  Matt.  x.  32,  33. 

Inward  sufferings  are  greater  afflictions  than  those 
outward  persecutions,  which  Christians  bring  not 
upon  themselves  by  giving  unnecessary  offences  by 
self-will,  imprudent  and  unseasonable  behaviour, 
soaring  beyond  the  limits  of  the  written  word  of 
God  ;  but  neither  do  they  shun  it,  being  willing 
to  suffer  every  thing  after  the  will  of  God,  rather 
than  to  hurt  the  cause  of  God  the  least,  and  depart 
a  hair's  breadth  from  his  express  will,  out  of  com- 
plaisance to  the  world.  They  openly  confess  Christ 
their  Lord,  and  do  not  mind  to  be  called  fools  by 
the  wicked,  as  they  are  persuaded  that  at  last  they 
will  call  themselves  by  that  name.  Wisd.  v.  4. 
Therefore,  they  care  not  for  the  approbation  and 
praise  of  the  world,  but  count  it  a  great  honour  to 
bear  the  reproaches  of  Christ. 

Blest  are  the  sufferers  who  partake 
Of  pain  and  shame  for  Jesus'  sake 
Their  souls  shall  triumph  in  the  Lord, 
Glory  and  joy  are  their  reward. 

The  Lamb  shall  lead  his  heavenly  flock 

Where  living  fountains  rise. 
And  love  divine  shall  wipe  away 

The  sorrows  of  their  eyes. 


AUGUST  9.  229 

Take  heed  to  your  spirit.  Matt.  ii.  16.  The  heart 
is  deceitful  above  all  things  and  desperately  wick- 
ed; who  can  know  it?  Jer.  xvii.  9. 

Even  believers  feel  this  virickedness  of  their  hearts, 
Psal.  XXX.  7,  8.  For  the  heart,  as  John  Bunyan  ob- 
serves, has  many  secret  ways  and  private  loop-holes, 
in  which  the  diabolists,  that  is,  sinful  lusts,  can  hide 
themselves  so  well,  that  they  seem  to  be  quite  over- 
come ;  but  upon  occasion,  especially  when  we  are 
careless,  they  spring  up  again,  though  sometimes 
under  other  and  perhaps  quite  spiritual  names. — 
Therefore  we  ought  always  to  be  jealous  of  our- 
selves. For  the  flesh  is  never  more  fleshly  and  dan- 
gerous, than  when  it  has  the  most  spiritual  appear- 
ance, and  covers  its  lusts  with  the  holiness  and 
spirituality  of  angels. 

Sin  has  a  thousand  treach'rous  arts 

To  practice  on  the  mind ; 
With  flatt'ring  looks  she  tempts  our  hearts 

But  leaves  a  sting  behind. 

With  names  of  virtue,  she  deceives 

The  aged  and  the  young ; 
And  while  the  heedless  wretch  believes, 

She  makes  his  fetters  strong. 

She  pleads  for  all  the  joys  she  brings, 

And  gives  a  fair  pretence  ; 
But  cheats  the  soul  of  heavenly  things, 

And  chains  it  down  to  sense. 

So  on  a  tree  divinely  fair. 

Grew  the  forbidden  food ; 
Our  mother  took  the  poison  there? 

And  tainted  all  her  blood. 

20 


230  AUGUST  10. 

0  send  out  thy  light  and  truth,  let  them  lead  me,  Ut 
them  bring  me  unto  thy  holy  hill  and  to  thy  taber- 
nacles. Psal.  xliii.  3.  O  send  thy  ivisdom  out  of 
thy  holy  heavens  and  from  the  throne  of  thy  glo- 
ry, that  being  present  she  may  labour  icith  me, 
that  I  may  know  what  is  pleasing  unto  thee,  ^c. 
Wisd.  ix.  4,  10,  17,  19.  Divine  answer.  The 
path  of  the  just  is  as  the  shining  light,  that  shin- 
eth  more  and  more  unto  the  perfect  day.  Prov. 
iv.  18. 

The  wiser  we  are  in  our  own  conceits,  the  more 
negligent  are  we  in  prayer,  and  more  destitute  of 
true  wisdom  and  faith,  "  For  the  Lord  gives  only 
isight  to  the  blind  and  to  the  babes  who  pray  for 
it."  Therefore  the  deepest  humblings  go  before 
the  greatest  blessings.  O !  my  blessed  Saviour  ! 
since  I  am  always  blind  and  ignorant  of  myself,  if 

1  am  not  guided  by  thine  eyes,  I  desire  always  to 
look  up  to  thee,  and  do  every  thing  under  thy  di- 
rection. 

But  few  among  the  carnal  wise, 

But  few  of  noble  race, 
Obtain  the  favour  of  thine  eyes, 

Almighty  King  of  Grace. 

He  takes  the  men  of  meanest  name 

For  sons  and  heirs  of  God, 
And  thus  he  pours  abundant  shame 

On  honourable  blood. 

He  call  the  fool  and  makes  him  know. 

The  mysteries  of  his  grace, 
To  bring  aspiring  wisdom  low, 

And  all  its  pride  abase. 


AUGUST  11.  231 

By  grace  ye  are  saved.  Eph.  ii.  5. 

To  rely  on  grace,  and  desire  to  be  saved  only  by- 
free  grace,  is  a  sweet  exercise  ;  but  so  far  from  be- 
ing practised  enough,  that  we  have  all  need  to 
learn  the  prayer  of  the  publican  better  still,  since 
the  pharisee  and  the  old  monk,  as  Luther  observes, 
are  ever  busy  to  creep  in  again. 

But  care  must  be  taken,  that  we  do  not  build 
our  fahh  only  upon  the  sv/eet  enjoyments  of  the 
grace  of  God  in  our  hearts;  but  also,  upon  the 
grace  in  the  heart  of  God,  as  It  is  recovered  by 
Christ  and  promised  to  us  through  Christ.  For 
which  reason  God  sometimes  denies  us  sensible  en- 
joyments, that  true  faith  may  begin  to  act  like  it- 
self, and  depend  upon  nothing  but  his  free  grace  in 
Christ.  And  this  we  have  also  boldness  to  do, 
should  we  even  seem  to  fall  short  of  due  measure 
of  faith,  godly  sorrow  and  repentance.  For  since 
there  is  no  merit  to  be  placed  in  these  things  there 
is  no  certain  measure  and  degree  prescribed  to  all ; 
but  it  is  enough  truly  to  hate  sin,  to  desire  grace, 
and  sincerely  to  enter  upon  the  Christian  race. 
'Tis  not  by  works  of  righteousness 

Which  our  own  hands  have  done; 
But  we  are  saved  by  sovereign  grace, 

Abounding  through  his  Son. 
'Tis  from  the  mercy  of  our  God 

That  all  our  hopes  begin  ; 
'Tis  by  the  water  and  the  blood 

Our  souls  are  washed  from  sin. 
Kaised  from  the  dead  we  Hve  anew? 

And  justified  by  grace, 
We  shall  appear  in  glory  too, 
And  see  our  Father's  face. 


232  AUGUST  12. 

Be  fervent  in  spirit,  Rom.  xii.  11.  That  thou 
hast  a  name,  that  thou  livest,  and  art  dead. 
Rev.  iii.  1,  16. 

If  thou  canst  not  pray  fervently,  ask  God  the 
reason  of  it,  humbly,  and  accuse  thyself  in  every 
thing,  and  come  quite  empty,  poor,  and  miserable, 
looking  upon  thyself  at  the  same  time  as  reconciled, 
just  covered,  spotless,  accepted,  and  beloved  through 
Christ.  Thus  boldly  to  lay  hold  on  Christ,  his  Fa- 
ther and  the  holy  Spirit,  as  being  thine  with  every 
thing,  will  certainly  rouse  thee  up  and  make  thee 
fervent  again.  May  the  Lord  teach  me  to  practise 
this  and  keep  me  ever  awake. 

Long  have  I  sat  beneath  the  sound 

Of  thy  salvation.  Lord ; 
But  still  how  weak  my  faith  is  found, 

And  knowledge  of  thy  word ! 

How  cold  and  feeble  is  my  love ! 

How  negligent  my  fear ! 
How  long  my  hopes  of  joys  above! 

How  few  affections  there ! 

My  dear  Almighty  and  my  God, 

How  little  art  thou  known 
By  all  the  judgments  of  thy  rod. 

And  blessings  of  thy  throne  ! 

Great  God !  thy  sovereign  power  impart. 

To  give  thy  word  success. 
Write  thy  salvation  in  my  heart. 

And  make  me  learn  thy  grace. 


AUGUST  13.  233 

Be  ye  not  as  the  horse  or  as  the  mule,  which  have  no 
understanding ;  whose  mouth  must  be  held  in  with 
hit  and  bridle,  lest  they  come  near  unto  thee. 
Psal.  xxxii.  9.  Therefore,  if  ye  call  on  the  Fa- 
ther, who,  without  respect  of  persons-,  judgeth 
according  to  every  man's  ivork,  pass  the  time  of 
your  sojourning  here  in  fear-   1  Pet.  i.  1 7. 

O  wretched  man !  dost  thou  really  believe  that 
God  is  the  judge  of  all  things,  even  what  is  private- 
ly done,  the  secrets  of  the  heart  not  excepted  ; 
how  canst  thou  meet  thy  Judge  in  this  thy  security 
or  hypocrisy,  without  a  true  change  of  the  heart ; 
dost  thou  think  that  there  is  such  a  thing  as  dis- 
sembling, excusing,  or  escaping  then,  as  there  is 
now  ?  By  no  means  ?  O  begin  therefore  in  time  to 
consider  it  well.  How  wilt  thou  appear  before 
that  awful,  holy,  and  impartial  judgment  seat? 
what  canst  thou  answer  for  thyself?  and  what  then 
must  become  of  thee  ? 

Think,  O  my  soul,  the  dreadful  day 

When  this  incensed  God 
Shall  rend  the  sky,  and  burn  the  sea, 

And  fling  his  wrath  abroad! 

What  shall  the  wretch,  the  sinner  do  ? 

He  once  defied  the  Lord : 
But  he  shall  dread  the  thund'rer  now 

And  sink  beneath  his  word. 

Tempests  of  angry  fire  shall  roll, 

To  blast  the  rebel  worm  ; 
And  beat  upon  his  naked  soul 

In  one  eternal  storm. 
20* 


234  AUGUST  14. 

Be  strong  and  of  good  courage*  I  will  he  with 
thee,  I  will  not  fail  thee  nor  forsalce  thee. 
Only  be  thou  strong  and  very  courageous ! 
O  sweet  commandment !  he  not  afraid,  nei- 
ther he  thou  dismayed,  for  the  Lord  thy  God 
is  with  thee,  whithersoever  thougoest,  O  glo- 
rious promise !  Joshua,  i.  5,  6,  9.  Nay,  I 
have  called  thee  by  thy  name :  I  have  surna- 
med  thee,  though  thou  hast  not  Icnovm  me, 
Isa.  xlv.  4. 

God  requires  nothing  but  faith,  which  removes 
and  does  great  things,  makes  cheerful,  strong,  and 
easy  in  difficulties.  Therefore  have  always  the  best 
confidence  in  God,  and  fear  nothing  ;  for  he  is  with 
thee  in  all  things.  He  that  has  but  this  one  care 
and  fear,  not  to  displease  him,  need  not  care  and 
fear  any  thing  else.  His  safety  is  ensured  in  the 
promise  of  God,  who  will  keep  him  harmless  in  all 
things. 

Awake  our  souls  (away  our  fears, 
Let  every  trembling  thought  be  gone) 

Awake  and  run  the  heavenly  race, 
And  put  a  cheerful  courage  on. 

True,  'tis  a  straight  and  thorny  road, 
And  mortal  spirits  tire  and  faint ; 

But  they  forget  the  mighty  God 

That  feeds  the  strength  of  every  saint. 

From  him,  the  overflowing  spring. 
Our  souls  shall  drink  a  fresh  supply, 

While  such  as  trust  their  native  strength 
Shall  melt  away,  and  droop,  and  die. 


AUGUST  15.  235 

Behold  the  Lamh  of  God,  who  takes  away  the  si7is 
of  the  world.  John,  i.  29.  These  are  they  who 
came  out  of  great  tribulation,  and  have  ivashed 
their  robes  and  inade  them  white  in  the  blood  of 
the  Lamb.  Therefore  are  they  before  the  throne 
of  God,  and  serve  him  day  and  night  in  his  tem- 
ple.    Rev.  vii.  14,  15. 

He  that  washes  himself  continually  in  the  blood 
of  Christ,  does  not  make  light  of  sin,  but  detests  it 
above  all  things  ;  for  what  can  be  more  abomina- 
ble than  sin,  since  it  cannot  be  taken  away  but  by 
the  blood  of  the  Son  of  God.  This  humbles  and 
makes  us  serious  :  and  without  this,  it  is  not  right 
with  our  souls.  To  speak  continually  of  the  blood 
of  the  Lamb,  and  yet  be  puffed  up,  and  boast,  and 
trifle  with  sin,  cannot  agree  together. 

Now  will  I  hate  those  lusts  of  mine, 

That  crucified  my  God, 
Those  sins,  that  pierced  and  nailed  his  flesh, 

First  to  the  fatal  wood. 

Yes,  my  Redeemer,  they  shall  die, 

My  heart  has  so  decreed  ;  ' 

Nor  will  I  spare  the  guilty  things, 
That  made  my  Saviour  bleed. 

Whilst  with  a  melting,  broken  heart, 

My  murder'd  Lord  I  view, 
I'll  wage  revenge  against  my  sins, 

And  slay  thy  murd'rers  too. 


236  AUGUST  16. 

Verily  I  say  unto  you,  they  have  their  reward.  Matt, 
vi.  2.  But  the  righteous  live  forevermore ;  their 
reicard  is  with  the  Lord,  and  the  care  of  them 
is  with  the  Most  High.  Therefore  shall  they  re- 
ceive  a  kingdom  of  o- lory,  and  a  crown  of  beauty 
at  the  hand  of  the  Lord  ;  for  with  his  right  hand 
he  will  cover  them,  and  with  his  arm  he  will  pro- 
tect them.  VVisd.  v.  16,  17. 

For  this  crown,  faith  strives.  And  because  this 
faith  justifies,  it  makes  the  world  say,  well.  I  also 
believe  ;  but  where  is  their  conflict  and  conquest  1 
It  is  answered,  1  rely  on  Christ  and  grace  ;  but 
Canaan  was  also  a  {ree  gift  of  grace,  and  yet  it  was 
not  taken  without  conflicts.  And  moreover,  as 
worldly  people,  are  not  acquainted  with  the  wick- 
edness of  their  hearts,  they  do  not  trust  alone  upon 
grace,  but  upon  their  outward  form,  self-love  and 
pride  reigning  in  their  hearts. 

No  works  nor  duties  of  your  own, 
Can  for  the  smallest  sins  atone  : 
The  robes  that  nature  may  provide, 
Will  not  your  least  pollutions  hide. 

Ye  sons  of  pride,  that  kindle  coals 
With  your  own  hands,  to  warm  your  souIs>. 
Walk  in  the  light  of  your  own  fire, 
Enjoy  the  sparks  that  ye  desire. 

This  is  your  portion  at  my  hands, 
Hell  waits  you  with  her  iron  bands  ; 
You  shall  lie  down  in  sorrow  there, 
In  death,  in  darkness,  and  despair. 


AUGUST  IT:  237 

Behold,  I  come  as  a  thief.  Blessed  is  he  thatwatch- 
eth,  and  keepeth  his  garments,  lest  he  walk  naked 
and  they  see  his  shame.  Rev.  xvi.  15.  Behold  I 
come  quickly,  and  my  reivard  is  loith  me,  to  give 
every  man  according  as  his  ivork  shall  be.  Bhss- 
ed  are  they  that  do  his  commandments,  that  they 
may  have  the  right  to  the  tree  of  life  (which  is 
Christ  himself,)  and  may  enter  in  through  the 
gates  into  the  city.  Surely,  I  come  quickly.  Amen! 
Even  so,  come,  Lord  Jesus.  The  grace  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ  be  zvith  you  all,  Jlmen.  Rev. 
xxii.  14,  20,  21. 

As  sin,  always  besets  us,  so  Christ  himself  and 
his  blood,  must  always  be  our  robes,  else  there  is 
no  peace.  The  heart  must  firmly  be  centered  in 
Christ,  and  the  centre  to  be  fixed  upon  in  the 
whole  progress  of  inward  Chritstianity,  is  that  we 
have  forgiveness  in  the  blood  of  Christ ;  for  if  this 
is  revealed  in  the  soul  by  God,  himself,  heaven  and 
paradise  seem  to  open  to  her. 

He  is  a  God  of  sovereign  love, 

That  promis'd  heaven  to  me, 
And  taught  my  thoughts  to  soar  above 

Where  happy  spirits  be. 

Prepare  me,  Lord,  for  thy  right  hand, 

Then  come  the  joyful  day  ; 
Come  death  and  some  celestial  band, 

To  bear  my  soul  away. 

Haste,  my  beloved,  fetch  my  soul 

Up  to  thy  blest  abode  ; 
Fly,  for  my  spirit  longs  to  see, 

My  Saviour,  and  my  God. 


238  AUGUST  18. 

Behold,  I  maJce  all  things  new,  Sfc.  And  he  said 
untome,  it  is  done,  I  am  Jilpha  and  Omega,  the 
heginning  and  the  end :  I  will  give  unto  him 
that  is  aihirst  of  the  fountain  of  the  water  of  life 
freely.  Kev.  xxi.  5,  6,  7. 

To  thirst  after  Christ,  and  receive  him  by  faith, 
Jaclongs  to  justification  ;  but  to  drink  with  peace 
and  joy  from  Christ,  the  fountain  of  life,  is  the  seal- 
ing of  faith,  and  belongs  to  sanctification,  and  helps 
greatly  to  the  promoting  of  it.  Therefore,  the  seal- 
ing, assurance,  and  sense  of  grace,  is  not  the  same 
thing  with  justification  ;  but  the  fruit  of  it,  which 
does  not  always  follow  directly  ;  and  it  increases 
according  as  the  soul  drinks  more  and  more  from 
the  living  stream. 

Attend,  while  God's  exalted  Son, 

Doth  his  own  glories  show, 
Behold,  I  sit  upon  my  throne, 

Creating  all  things  new. 

Such  favours  as  a  God  can  give, 

My  royal  grace  bestows. 
Ye  thirsty  souls,  come,  taste  the  streams, 

Where  life  and  pleasure  flows. 

Far  from  the  rcfjions  of  the  dead, 
From  sin,  and  earth,  and  hell  ;  ' 

In  the  new  world  that  grace  has  made, 
I  would  for  ever  dwell. 

O  may  I  stand  before  the  Lamb, 

When  earth  and  seas  are  fled  ! 
And  hear  the  judge  pronounce  my  njtme, 

With  blessings  on  my  head, 


AUGUST  19.  233 

Behold  I  se7id  an  angel  (Christ  the  angel  of  the 
covenant)  before  thee,  to  keep  thee  in  the  way, 
and  to  bring  thee  in  the  'place  which  I  have  pre- 
pared. Exod.   xxiii.    20.    And  a  highway  shall 
be  there,  and  a  way,  and  it  shall  he  called  the 
way  of  holiness,  the  unclean  shall  not  pass  over  it; 
but  it  shall  be  for  those,  the  wnyfuring  men,  though 
fools,  shall  not  err  therein.  Christ  himself  is  this 
way,  the  new  and  living  way  ;  who  gives,  not 
only  life  and  strength  that  we  walk  and  be  not 
weaned,  John  xiv.  6.  Heb.  x.  20.  but  keeps  also 
the  road  clear,  even  the  last  road  of  death,  for 
no  lion  shall  be  there,  nor  any  ravenous  beast  shall 
go  up  Ihereon,  it  shall  not  be  found  there,  but  the 
redeemed  shall  walk  there.     Isa.  xxxv.  8,  9. 
O  Lord,  let  me  never  err  from  this  way  ;  and 
suffer  no  other  temptation  to  come  near  me,  but 
what  humbles  and  stirs  me  up  to  prayer,  and  the 
right  use  of  thy  word  in  faith,  that  I  may  be  car- 
ried through  all  difficulties,  and  especially  in  time 
of  death. 

Is  he  a  way  ?  he  leads  to  God, 
The  path  is  drawn  in  lines  of  blood  ; 
There  would  I  walk  with  hope  and  zeal, 
Till  I  arrive  at  Sion's  hill. 

Aspire  my  soul  to  glorious  deeds, 
The  captain  of  salvation  leads  : 
March  on,  nor  fear  to  win  the  day, 
Though  death  and  hell  obstruct  the  way. 

Should  death,  and  hell,  and  powers  unknown. 
Put  all  their  forms  of  mischief  on, 
I  shall  be  safe  for  Christ  displays 
Salvation  in  more  sovereign  way*. 


240  AUGUST  20. 

Surely  they  are  my  people^  children  that  will  not  lie, 
Sfc.  Isa.  Ixiii.  8.  Jlnd  in  their  mouth  was  found 
no  guile.  Rev.  xiv.  5.  Therefore,  sujfer  little 
chUdren  to  come  unto  me,  and  forbid  them  not, 
for  of  such  is  the  kingdom  of  God.  Mark,  x.  14. 

Bare  morality,  is  at  best,  but  patchwork.  It  is 
attempting  to  mend  our  hves,  without  the  necessa- 
ry means  ;  when  instead  of  this,  we  should  rather 
first  renounce  all  our  own  works,  come  to  Christ, 
without  guile  and  reserve,  and  in  a  word  turn  and 
be  like  a  child  ;  since  the  privilege  of  adoption, 
and  the  baptismal  covenant,  is  not  only  lost  by  gross 
and  outward  immoralities,  but  even  by  guile  and 
worldly  mindedness.  Therefore,  moral  men  must 
also  be  born  again  and  become  of  a  harmless  and 
child-like,  though  not  a  childish  disposition,  as  ma- 
ny fanciful  sectarian  children  now,  who  sometimes 
trifle  and  play,  as  it  were,  with  the  wounds  of  Christ, 
and  the  most  sacred  things,  or  at  least  do  not  treat 
them  reverently  enough. 

Behold,  what  wondrous  grace 

The  Father  has  bestow 'd 
On  sinners  of  a  mortal  race, 

To  call  them  sons  of  God. 

A  hope  so  much  divine 

May  trials  well  endure, 
May  purge  our  souls  from  sense  and  sin, 

As  Christ  the  Lord  is  pure. 

If  in  my  Father's  love 

I  share  a  filial  part. 
Send  down  thy  spirit  like  a  dove, 

To  rest  upon  my  heart. 


AUGUST  21.  241 

They  are  virgins  which  follow  the  Lamb  whither- 
soever he  goes  ;  these  were  redeemed  from  among 
men,  being  the  first  fruits  unto  God  and  unto  the 
Lamb,  And  in  their  mouth  was  found  no  guile  ; 
for  they  are  without  fault  before  the  throne  of 
God.  Rev.  x'lv.  4,  5. 

Peter,  being  still  in  his  presunnption,  pretended 
to  follow  Christ  unto  death  ;  but  when  he  was  truly 
humbled,  and  near  his  end,  he  prudently  added  to 
his  exhortations  in  sufferings,  "if  need  be,"  1  Pet. 
i.  6.  *'  If  the  will  of  God  be  so."  Chap.  iii.  17. 
"  According  to  the  will  of  God."  Chap.  iv.  19. 
This  is  quite  opposite  to  the  spiritual,  hypocritical, 
and  presumptuous  pride  and  self-will ;  for  many  in 
their  own  will,  resolve  to  be  martyrs,  and  cannot 
bear  so  much  as  only  a  contradiction. 

Give  me  the  wings  of  faith,  to  rise 

Within  the  veil,  to  see 
The  saints  above,  how  great  their  joys, 

And  bright  their  glories  be. 

Once  they  were  mourning  here  below, 
And  wet  their  couch  with  tears  ; 

They  wrestled  hard,  as  we  do  now, 
With  sin,  and  doubts,  and  fears.  . 

I  ask  them  whence  their  victory  came  ? 

They,  with  united  breath, 
Ascribe  their  conquest  to  the  Lamb, 

Their  triumph  to  his  death. 

They  mark'd  the  footsteps  that  he  trod, 

His  love  inspir'd  their  breast, 
And  following  their  incarnate  God, 

Possess'd  th9  promis'd  rest. 
21 


242  AUGUST  22. 

They  are  of  the  world,  therefore  speak  they  of  the 
world,  and  the  world  hears  them.  We  are  of 
God,  Sfc.  1  John,  iv.  5,  6. 

What  should  set  us  more  against  the  world,  than 
the  cross  of  Christ  1  and  what  is  generally  more 
turned  into  security  and  worldly  lusts  than  this? 
O !  miserable  spiders,  that  suck  poison  out  of  the 
sweetest  flowers. 

When  in  the  light  of  faith  divine, 

We  look  on  things  below, 
Honour,  and  gold,  and  sensual  joy, 

How  vain  and  dangerous  too  ! 

The  pleasures  that  allure  our  sense 

Are  dangerous  snares  to  souls. 
There's  but  a  drop  of  flattering  sweetj 

And  dash'd  with  bitter  bowls. 

God  is  my  all-sufficient  good, 

My  portion  and  my  choice. 
In  him  my  vast  desires  are  fill'd, 

And  all  my  powers  rejoice. 

In  vain  the  world  accosts  my  ear. 

And  tempts  my  heart  anew, 
I  cannot  buy  your  bliss  so  dear, 

Nor  part  with  heaven  for  you. 


AUGUST  23.  243 

She  (Love)  seeJceth  not  her  own,  is  not  easily,  pra- 
vokedf  and  never faileth.  1  Cor.  xiii.  5, 8. 

It  being  my  heart's  desire,  O  my  dear  heavenly 
Father,  once  to  love  thee  and  my  neighbour,  up- 
rightly and  ardently,  I  beg  that  thou  wouldst  let 
jne  know  and  enjoy  thy  love  in  Christ,  which  is 
the  only  means  to  come  to  the  same  ;  for  how  can  I 
possibly  be  cold  and  hard,  when  resting  at  the  cross 
of  Christ !  and  in  thy  bosom,  I  enjoy  thy  free  grace, 
and  truly  experience  thine  infinite  love  towards  me, 
the  most  miserable  and  chiefest  of  sinners.  O  i 
may  this  melt  down  and  change  me  thoroughly. 

Had  I  the  tongues  of  Greeks  and  Jews, 
And  nobler  speech  than  angels  use. 
If  love  be  absent,  I  am  found, 
Like  tinkling  brass,  an  empty  sound. 

"Were  I  inspir'd  to  preach,  and  tell 
All  that  is  done  in  heaven,  and  hell. 
Or  could  my  faith  the  world  remove, 
Still  I  am  wanting,  without  love. 

Should  I  distribute  all  my  store 
To  feed  the  bowels  of  the  poor, 
Or  give  my  body  to  the  flame 
To  gain  a  martyr's  glorious  name. 

If  love  to  God,  and  love  to  men 
Be  absent,  all  my  hopes  are  vain  ; 
Npr  tongue,  nor  gifts,  nor  fiery  zeal:^ 
The  work  of  love  can  e'er  fulfil 


244  AUGUST  24. 

If  a  man  also  strive  for  masteries,  yet  is  he  not 
croioned  except  he  strive  lawfully.  2  Tim.  ii.  5. 
namely,  in  faith,  by  which  we  have  victory.  And 
as  the  enemies  return  again  and  again,  and  al- 
ways become  more  crafty  and  more  strong,  we 
must  continually  be  in  arms.  Until  now,  the 
kingdom  of  heaven  suffereth  violence.  Matt.  xi. 
12. 

If  those  cannot  expect  to  be  crowned,  who  strive, 
but  not  lawfully,  what  must  become  of  those  who 
do  not  strive  at  all !  O  Lord,  strengthen  me,  there- 
fore, to  get  the  victory,  for  it  greatly  exalts  thy 
glory,  if  the  power  of  mine  enemies  is  broke  ;  and 
the  least  degree  of  thy  grace  and  strength,  is  able 
to  overcome  the  greatest  power  of  sin  at  last,  which 
is  thy  promise,  and  cannot  fail  of  being  performed, 
since  in  the  former,  there  is  the  promise  of  life,  and 
growth,  whilst  the  latter  is  condemned  to  death, 
and  actually  dies,  more  and  more,  if  nailed  to  the 
cross  of  Christ. 

Stand  up,  my  soul,  shake  off  thy  fears, 
And  gird  the  gospel  armour  on, 

March  to  the  gates  of  endless  joy. 

Where  thy  great  Captain,  Saviour's  gone. 

What  though  the  prince  of  darkness  rage, 
And  waste  the  fury  of  his  spite. 

Eternal  chains  confine  him  down 
To  fiery  deeps  and  endless  night. 

What  though  thine  inward  lusts  rebel  ? 

'Tis  but  a  strugghng  gasp  for  Ufe  ; 
The  weapons  of  victorious  grace 

Shall  slay  thy  sins  and  end  the  strife. 


AUGUST  25.  2i'5 

So  then  it  is  not  of  Mm  that  willeth,  nor  of  them 
that  runneth,  but  of  God  that  showeth  mercy. 
Rom.  ix.  16.  Thou  hast  a  little  strength.  Rev. 
iii.  8.  But  go  in  this  thy  might,  S^^c.  Surely  I 
will  be  with  thee.  Judges,  vi.  14,  16. 

A  little  strength,  is  also  the  strength  of  God 
through  Christ,  the  second  Adam,  and  consequent- 
ly stronger  than  the  power  of  Satan,  and  the  first 
Adam,  should  it  seem  ever  so  strong.  Nay,  it  is 
the  death  of  the  old  man,  already,  and  kills  him  by 
degrees  more  and  more,  till  at  last,  when  we  drop 
this  body  of  sin,  it  will  destroy  him  entirely.  Be- 
lievers, in  such  a  state,  may  think  themselves  weak- 
er than  before  they  had  any  grace,  not  being  able 
now  to  put  such  a  force  upon  themselves  as  former- 
ly. But  it  is  to  be  remembered,  that  hypocrisy  and 
proud  nature,  derirous  of  being  seen  and  taken  no- 
tice of,  sometimes  can  out-do  grace,  in  many  out- 
ward things,  and  have  a  better  appearance  in  the 
eyes  of  man  ;  for  real  Christians,  not  being  wiHing 
to  be  worked  upon  by  nature  any  longer,  and  yet 
having  but  little  strength,  cannot  put  such  a  con- 
strait  upon  themselves  continually,  but  they  may  be 
in  this  manner  tossed  to  and  fro  ;  which  the  Lord 
wisely  permits  for  their  good,  to  convince  them  the 
more  of  their  own  insufficiency  and  nothingness, 
that  they  may  rely  only  on  the  strength  of  the  Lord. 
Therefore  we  must  not  give  over  praying  and  ho- 
ping in  this  case  ;  but  as  it  is  only  the  mercy  and 
power  of  Christ,  which  preserves  and  strengthens 
the  poor  and  feeble,  we  rather  ought  to  be  more 
earnest  in  drawing  near  to  him  with  all  our  misery? 
weariness,  and  nakedness. 
21* 


246  AUGUST  26. 

If  after  they  have  escaped  the  pollutions  of  the  world, 
through  the  knowledge  of  the  Lord  and  Saviour 
Jesus  Christ,  they  are  again  entangled  therein, 
and  overcome,  the  latter  end  is  ivorse  with  them 
than  the  beginning.  2  Pet.  iii.  20. 

Some  not  only  deny  strong  temptation,  but  even 
all  inward  evil  suggestions  and  strivings  against  the 
same,  especially  in  experienced  Christians  ;  but  it 
is  quite  the  contrary  ;  for  beginners  strive  general- 
ly more  against  the  outward  pollutions  of  the  world, 
whilst  the  experienced  turn  their  force  more  against 
their  inward,  spiritual  iniquities.  Therefore  take 
heed  to  your  spirit,  though  your  meaning  be  ever 
so  good,  and  your  assurance  ever  so  great.  Be 
not  too  high  minded,  for  fear  of  falling.  Beware 
of  all  sins,  for  the  least  may  unawares  and  by  de- 
grees draw  thee  into  many  others,  so  as  to  be  at 
last  entangled  in  such  a  manner,  that  without  great 
watchfulness  it  will  be  impossible  to  be  disengaged, 
therefore  be  not  deceived  ;  flee  all  occasions  of  sin. 
Say  not  within  thyself,  it  is  no  matter  ;  it  concerns 
only  outward  things,  which  do  not  belong  to  the 
essence  of  Christianity.  For  such  outward  levity  is 
a  sure  evidence  of  a  false  inward  levity  and  hght- 
ness  of  mind.  And  by  conforming  to  the  world 
we  give  a  good  handle  to  the  enemy  of  souls  to 
ruin  us ;  and  by  sad  experience  we  shall  be  con- 
vinced m  time,  that  the  latter  end  is  worse  than 
the  beginning. 

O  for  a  persevering  power, 

To  keep  thy  just  commands  ; 
We  would  defile  our  hearts  no  more  ; 

No  more  pollute  our  hands. 


AUGUST  27.  f47 

If  it  he  possible,  as  much  as   lies  in  you,  live 
peaceably  ivith  all  men.  Rom.  xii.  18. 

There  is  mucli  contest  in  the  world  about  meum 
and  tuum-,  that  is,  ?nine  and  thine;  but  believers 
taking  Christ,  to  be  their  only  property,  who  nobody 
can  take  from  them,  have  as  much  as  lies  in  them, 
peace  with  all  men,  saying, 

If  by  hundreds  I  can  gain, 

A  farthing's  loss  makes  httle  pain. 

And  since  wrath  and  anger  turn  into  nothing  but 
disquietness,  and  are  punished  by  themselves,  why 
dost  thou  suffer  thyself  to  be  so  easily  moved  by 
them  ;  the  least  provocation,  even  a  single  word 
perhaps,  will  stir  up  the  corruption  of  the  heart,  so 
as  to  change  thy  countenance  and  utter  dreadful 
words.  Therefore  consider  how  God  bears  with 
thee,  and  what  an  abomination  anger  is.  It  is  a  fire 
from  hell,  the  true  image  of  the  old  dragon  :  but  be- 
ing called  to  bear  the  image  of  God  and  bring  forth 
the  fruits  of  the  good  spirit,  thou  art  to  follow  the 
lamb-like  mind  of  Christ,  and  to  that  purpose  it  is 
highly  necessary,  first  to  avoid  all  occasions  of  strife 
and  contention.  Secondly,  to  bridle  our  tongues  if 
quarrels  arise.  Thirdly,  to  suffer,  when  we  are 
wronged.  Fourthly,  to  pray  directly  and  quench  the 
sparks  of  fire  before  they  break  out  into  a  flame.  This 
is  the  easiest  and  the  only  method  to  prevent  great 
troubles,  and  lead  a  peaceful,  happy  life,  for  anger 
carries  uneasiness,  and  love  a  sweet  rest  in  itself^ 

Blest  are  the  men  of  peaceful  life, 
Who  quench  the  coals  of  growing  strife, 
They  shall  be  called  the  heirs  bliss, 
The  sons  of  God,  the  God  of  peace. 


248  AUGUST  £8. 

Having,  therefore,  brethren,  boldness  to  enter 
into  the  holiest  by  the  blood  of  Jesus,  &lc.  let 
us  draw  near  with  a  true  heart,  in  full  assur- 
ance of  faith,  having  our  heart  sprinkled 
{with  the  blood  of  Christ,  by  which  he  once 
entered  into  the  holy  place,  having  obtained 
eternal  redemption  for  us,  and  purged  our 
consciences  from  dead  works,  to  serve  the 
living  God,)  from  an  evil  conscience,  and  our 
bodies  washed  with  pure  water.  Heb.  x.  19, 
22. 

Christ  has  for  ever  purged  our  sins  by  himself; 
for  by  one  offering  he  has  perfected  for  ever,  them  that 
are  sanctifed.  Chap.  x.  14.  And  to  this  sprinkling 
of  the  blood  of  Christ,  all  believers,  even  the  weak- 
est, are  come,  that  is  to  say  he  has  the  forgiveness 
of  sins,  in  his  blood.  This  is  the  element  and  life  ; 
thus  he  lives  by  the  faith  of  the  Son  of  God,  who 
also  loved  him,  always  applying  his  ransom  to  his 
soul,  and  pleading  his  merits  before  his  heavenly 
Father,  which  keeps  his  conscience  pure  and  easy. 

They  find  access  at  every  hour 

To  God  within  the  veil ; 
Hence  they  derive  a  quickening  power. 

And  joys  that  never  fail. 

O  happy  souls  !  O  glorious  state 

Of  overflowing  grace ! 
To  dwell  so  near  their  Father's  seat, 

And  see  his  lovely  face. 


AUGUST  29.  249 

Put  on  (therefore,  as  the  elect  of  God,  holy  and  he- 
loved)  bowels  of  mercy,  kindness,  humbleness  of 
mind,  meekness,  long- suffering ;  forbearing  one 
another,  (Sfc.  and  above  all  these  things,  put  on 
charity,  love,  ivhich  is  the  bond  of  perfection. 
Col.  iii.  12,  13,  14.  Judge  not,  <^c.  Matt.  vii.  1. 
And  let  none  of  you  imagine  evil  in  your  hearts 
against  his  neighbour.  Zech.  viii.  17. 

Therefore,  let  us  be  watchful  against  suspicions, 
always  putting  the  best  construction  upon  the  be- 
haviour of  our  neighbour.  For  love  beareth  all 
things,  and  hopeth  always  the  best.  And  since  we 
are  mistaken  in  our  judgments,  a  hundred  to  one, 
says  Mr.  Professor  Francke,  we  ought  to  be  exceed- 
ing cautious,  not  to  be  too  quick  and  hasty  in  judg- 
ing of  others. 

Love  suffers  long  with  patient  eye, 

Nor  is  provoked  in  haste, 
She  lets  the  present  injury  die. 

And  long  forgets  the  past. 

Malice  and  rage,  those  fires  of  hell, 
She  quenches  with  her  tongue, 

Hopes,  and  believes,  and  thinks  no  ill, 
Though  she  endures  the  wrong. 

She  lays  her  own  advantage  by, 
To  seek  her  neighbour's  good, 

So  God's  own  Son  came  down  to  die. 
And  bought  our  lives  with  blood. 

Love  ia  the  grace  that  keeps  her  power 

In  all  the  realms  above. 
There  faith  and  hope  are  known  no  more 

But  saints  for  ever  love. 


250  AUGUST  30. 

Hold  thou  me  up,  amd  I  shall,  he  safe;  and  I 
will  have  respect  unto  (delight  myself  in)  thy 
statutes  continually.  Psal.  cxix.  117. 

Though  the  flesh  still  remains  in  believers,  that 
they  cannot  always  practice  that  which  is  good, 
without  constraint,  strife,  and  crucifying  the  old 
man ;  yet  as  to  the  spirit,  they  have  delight  in  the 
word  of  the  Lord  through  faith,  by  the  upholding 
of  God;  for  being  humbled  on  this  account,  and 
earnestly  craving  pardon  and  strength,  they  always 
receive  not  only  peace,  but  strength  for  the  subdu- 
ing of  the  flesh,  and  doing  all  things  with  pleasure. 

Eternal  Spirit  I  we  confess, 
And  sing  the  wonders  of  thy  grace, 
Thy  power  conveys  our  blessings  do\\rn, 
From  God  the  Father  and  the  Son. 

Enlightened  by  thine  heavenly  ray, 
Our  shades  and  darkness  turn  to  day,. 
Thine  inward  teachings  make  us  knoWj 
Our  danger  and  our  refuge  too. 

Thy  power  and  glory  works  within, 
And  breaks  the  chains  of  reigning  sin» 
Doth  our  imperious  lusts  subdue 
And  forms  our  wretched  hearts  anew. 

The  troubled  conscience  knoAvs  thy  voice* 
Thy  cheering  words  awake  our  joys  ; 
Thy  words  allay  the  stormy  wind, 
j^nd  calm  the  surges  of  the  mind. 


AUGUST  31.  251 

Rise  up,  my  love.^myfair  one,  and  come  away;  for 
lOf  the  winter  is  past,  the  rain  is  over  and  gone, 
Thejlowers  appear  on  the  earth,  the  time  of  the 
singing  of  birds  is  come,  and  the  voice  of  the  tur- 
tle is  heard  hi  our  land  ^c.    Arise,  my  love,  my 
fair  one^  and  come  aivay.  O !  my  dove-,  thou  art 
in  the  clefts  of  the  rock,  ^Sfc.  Cant.  ii.  10—14. 
O  Lord  !  how  often  has  it  been  winter  with  me, 
but  thou  hast  always  quickened  me  again.     Grant 
that  by  these  experiences  I  may  be  so  used  to  thy 
ways,  as  always  to  expect  the  best  from  thee,  in 
every  thing,  and  to  have  only  this  one  care,  name- 
ly, how  I  may  please  theei,  as  thy  bride  and  dove» 
and  be  accepted  through  thee^  with  thy  Father. 
Let  my  faith  be  strengthened  in  such  a  manner  by 
all  thy  various  dealings  with  me,  that  at  last,  I  may 
have  boldness,  and  find  rest  in  thy  wounds,   since 
there  is  room  for  the  greatest  of  sinners,  and  even 
for  me. 

The  voice  of  my  beloved  sounds, 
Over  the  rocks  and  rising  grounds, 
O'er  hills  of  guilt,  and  seas  of  grief, 
He  leaps,  he  flies  to  my  relief. 
Gently  he  draws  my  heart  along, 
Both  with  his  beauties  and  his  tongue ; 
Rise,  says  my  Lord,  make  haste  away, 
No  mortal  joys  are  worth  thy  stay. 
The  Jewish  wint'ry  state  is  gone, 
The  mists  are  fled,  the  spring  comes  on, 
The  sacred  turtle-dove  we  hear 
Proclaim  the  new,  the  joyful  year. 
And  when  we  hear  our  Jesus  say, 
Rise  up,  my  love,  make  haste  away 
Our  hearts  would  fain  out-fly  the  wind, 
And  leave  all  earthly  love  behind. 


252  SEPTEMBER  1. 

Be  not  conformed  to  this  world.  Rom.  xii.  2. 
And  love  not  the  world,  neither  the  things  that 
are  in  the  world.  If  any  man  love  the  world, 
the  love  of  the  Father  is  not  in  him.  And  the 
world  passeth  away,  and  the  lust  thereof ;  hut 
he  that  doeth  the  will  of  God,  abidethfor  ever, 
1  John,  ii.  15,  17. 

Reader !  whose  will  dost  thou  do  ?  examine  thy- 
self. Perhaps  thou  thinkest,  that  to  love  the  world 
and  do  her  will,  cannot  be  so  great  a  sin,  since  the 
most  honest  people  do  the  same.  But  observe,  as 
thou  wouldst  be  saved,  that  ifthoulovest  the  world, 
the  love  of  the  Father  is  not  in  thee  ;  and  without 
the  love  of  the  Father,  thou  hast  no  faith  ;  and  be- 
ing destitute  of  faith,  thou  hast  no  Christ,  and  con- 
sequently no  life  and  salvation, 

I  send  the  things  of  earth  away, 

Ye  tempters  of  the  mind. 
False  as  the  smooth  deceitful  sea, 

And  empty  as  the  whistling  wind. 
Your  streams  were  floating  me  along 

Down  to  the  gulf  of  black  despair, 
And  whilst  I  listen'd  to  your  song 

Your  streams  had  e'en  convey'd  me  there. 
Now  to  the  shining  realms  above 

I  stretch  my  hands,  and  glance  my  eyes  ; 
O  for  the  pinions  of  a  dove, 

To  bear  me  to  the  upper  skies. 
Lord,  I  adore  thy  matchless  grace, 

That  warn'd  me  of  that  dark  abyss. 
That  drew  me  from  those  treach'rous  seas., 

And  bid  me  seek  superior  bliss. 


SEPTEMBER  2.  ^53 

Not  fashioning  yourselves  according  to  the  former  '^ 
lusts  in  your  ignorance ;  hut  as  he  who  has  called^ 
you  is  holy,  so  be  ye  holy  ;  note,  in  all  manner  of 
conversation.  1  Pet.  i.  14,  15.  Give  diligence 
to  make  your  calling  and  election  sure;  for  the 
time  past  of  our  Ufe  may  svfice  us  to  have  wrought 
the  will  of  the  Gentiles,  &lz.  2  Pet.  i.  10.  1  Pet. 
iv.  3. 

None  can  be  so  sure  of  his  salvation,  as  to  be 
for  ever  free  from  fears  and  doubts,  for  there  is  no 
assurance  without  conflicts  ;  therefore  all  diligence 
is  required,  to  be  evermore  sure  of  it,  so  as  to  have 
boldness  even  in  death.  But  let  us  take  heed  of 
presumption,  since  we  do  not  know  what  may  l>e- 
fall  us  at  last ;  and  be  careful  not  to  despise,  and 
over-drive  the  weaker  sort  of  Christians,  that  by 
making  general  rules  of  our  own  experience,  this 
comfortable  doctrine  of  assurance  may  not  be  mat- 
ter of  torment  to  others. 

How  short  and  hasty  is  our  life! 

How  vast  our  soul's  affairs ! 
Yet  senseless  mortals,  vainly  strive 

To  lavish  out  their  years. 
God  from  on  high  invites  us  home, 

But  we  march  heedless  on, 
And  ever  hastening  to  the  tomb, 

Stoop  downwards  as  we  run. 
How  we  deserve  the  deepest  hell, 

That  slight  the  joys  above  ! 
What  chains  of  vengeance  should  we  feel ! 

That  break  such  cords  of  love. 
Draw  us,  O  God,  with  sovereign  grace, 

And  hft  our  thoughts  on  high, 
That  we  may  end  this  mortal  race, 
And  see  salvation  nigh. 
22 


254  SEPTEMBER  5. 

~6fo  not  after  thy  lusts  ^  but  refrain  thyself  from 
i  thine  aj)petites,  Sirach,  xviii.  30. 

Self,  will  mix  too  often  with  the  most  religious 
things,  which  produces  nothing  but  divisions,  dis- 
orders, and,  as  it  is  now  in  our  days,  many  outward 
forms  of  our  own  invention,  nay  at  last  a  new  sort 
of  popery.  OLord!  heal  thou  the  breaches  of  Zi- 
on.  Even  well-meaning  people,  not  denying  their 
own  will,  and  not  taking  advice  from  more  expe- 
rienced Christians,  who  understand  the  devices  of 
Satan,  better,  may  be  sifted  and  lifted  up  by  the 
enemy,  that  they  must  be  made  humble  and  wise 
at  the  expense  of  some  misfortune  or  other. 

I  hate  the  tempter  and  his  charms, 

I  hate  his  flatt'ring  breath. 
The  serpent  takes  a  thousand  forms, 

To  cheat  our  souls  to  death. 

Ye  sons  of  God,  oppose  his  rage, 

Resist,  and  he'll  be  gone. 
Thus  did  our  dearest  Lord  engage, 

And  vanquish  him,  alone. 

Now  he  appears  almost  divine, 

Like  innocence  and  love, 
J5utthe  old  serpent  lurks  within, 

When  he  assumes  the  dove. 

Ely  from  the  false  deceiver's  tongue, 

Ye  soHS  of  Adam,  fly, 
Our  parents  found  the  snare  too  strong, 

Nor  should  the  children  try. 


SEPTEMBER  i.  265 

Rqyent  ye,  (O  change  your  mind)  and  heliepe 
the  gospel.  Mark  i.  ]5. 

O  the  great  comfort,  that  God  requires  only  faith, 
and  such  a  faith,  which  is  his  own  gift,  and  is  held 
forth,  truly,  to  every  one  that  will  receive  his  par- 
don, grace,  and  love.  But  that  this  may  not  be  un- 
derstood of  presumptuous  notions,  in  our  heads,  it 
is  well  to  be  observed,  that  true  repentance  goes 
before  faith,  by  which  the  heart  is  not  only  con- 
vinced of  sin,  and  filled  with  godly  sorrow,  but 
changed  so  as  to  hate  and  abandon  all  sin.  It  is 
not  enough  to  cleave  off  some  of  our  sins,  or  bo 
outwardly  reformed;  but  it  must  be  an  inward 
and  thorough  change  of  the  whole  mind  ;  for  if 
one  sin  be  reigning,  we  cannot  be  said  to  have  re- 
pented, and  received  that  faith  and  power  of  God 
whicli  overcomes  the  world  and  sin. 

Life  and  immortal  joys  are  given 

To  souls  that  mourn  the  sins  they've  done  3 

Children  of  wrath  made  heirs  of  heaven, 
By  faith  in  God^s  eternal  Son. 

Wo  to  the  wretch,  that  never  felt, 
The  inward  pangs  of  pious  grief; 

But  adds  to  all  his  crying  guilt 
The  stubborn  sin  of  unbehef. 

The  law  condemns  the  rebel  dead, 
Under  the  wrath  of  God  he  lies, 

lie  sealed  the  curse  on  his  own  head^ 
And  with  a  double  vengeance  dies. 


256  SEPTEMBER  5. 

Restore  unto  me  the  joy  of  thy  salvation,  and 
iiphold  me  with  thy  free  spirit,  Psal.  li.  12. 
Divine  answer.  As  one  whom  his  mother  cowr- 
forteth,  so  will  I  comfort  you.  Then  shall  ye 
suck,  ye  shall  be  borne  upon  her  sides,  and 
your  heart  shall  rejoice.  Isa.  Ixvi.  13,  24. 
For  my  words  do  good  to  him  that  walks  up- 
rightly^ Micah,  ii.  7, 

Comfort  belongs  to  such  as  really  pant  after  it, 
and  God  is  more  desirous  they  should  confidently 
rely  upon  his  salvation  in  all  things,  suck  the  com- 
forts of  his  promises,  and  be  strong,  than  a  tender 
mother  can  be  desirous  that  her  child  should  suck 
her  full  breasts.  And  where  else  should  strength 
come  from  'I 

O  sinner,  come  and  taste  his  love  \ 

Come,  learn  his  pleasant  ways, 
And  let  your  own  experience  prove 

The  sweetness  of  his  grace. 

Go  tell  him  all  your  secret  grief* 
Your  groanings  reach  his  ears ; 

He  gives  your  inward  pains  relief, 
And  calms  your  greatest  fears. 

O  love  the  Lord,  ye  saints  of  his, 

His  eye  regards  the  just ; 
How  richly  blest  their  portion  is 

Who  make  the  Lord  their  trust  I 

*  A  Christian  sometimes  must  open  and  pour  out  his  he§rt 
in  secret  before  the  Lord  alone,  for  fear  of  hurting  himself  and 
others.  This  liberty  must  be  allowed.  Too  close  uniting* 
often  cause  distress,  hypocrisy,  and  divisions. 


SEPTEMBER  6.  257 

Now  also,  wlien  I  am  om  and  gray  Jieaded,  O  God 
forsake  me  not.  Psal.  Ixxi.  18.  O  keep  my  soul 
and  deliver  me  I  let  me  not  be  ashamed,  for  I  pttt 
my  trust  in  thee.  Let  integrity  and  righteous- 
ness preserve  me;  for  I  wait  on  thee.  Psal.  xxv. 
20,21.  Divine  answer.  Hearken  unto  me,  O 
house  of  Jacob,  and  all  the  remnant  of  the  house 
of  Israel ;  which  are  borne  by  me  from  the  belly-, 
which  are  carried  from  the  womb.  And  even  to 
your  old  age,  I  am  he,  and  even  to  your  hoary 
hairs  will  I  carry  you  :  I  have  made,  and  J  will 
bear,  even  I  will  carry,  and  will  deliver  you.  Isa. 
xlvi.  3,  4.  For  the  Lord  is  full  of  compassion 
and  mercy,  long  suffering,  and  very  pitiful,  and 
forgiveth  sins,  and  saveth  in  time  of  affliction, 
Sirach,  ii.    11.  «S^c. 

God  never  does  nor  can  forsake  me,  since  I  am  as 
near  and  as  closely  united  to  him  as  a  child  which  is 
carried  in  the  mother's  womb.  O  great  comfort ! 
What  can  I  have  to  fear  ?  May  I  not  expect  every 
thing  now  confidently  from  him  ?  Yes,  and  this  is 
what  pleases  him  above  all  things.  Therefore  I  will 
be  careful  for  nothing,  but  in  every  thing  by  prayer 
and  suppHcation  with  thanksgiving,  make  my  re- 
quest known  unto  him,  Phil.  iv.  6.  always  trusting 
that  he  will  certainly  carry  me  through  all  difficul- 
ties to  come,  as  he  has  done  hitherto,  that  I  can  even 
give  him 'thanks  for  it  beforehand.  O  Lord,  grant 
that  I  may  practise  this  better  still. 

My  God,  my  everlasting  hope, 

I  live  upon  thy  truth  ! 
Thine  hands  have  held  my  childhood  up^ 

And  strengthen'd  all  my  youth. 
22* 


258  SEPTEMBER  7. 

Tntst  ye  not  in  lying  words^  saying,  the  temple 
of  the  Lord,  the  temple  of  the  Lord,  the 
temple  of  the  Lord  are  these  ;  but  thorough" 
ly  mend  your  ways  and  your  doings,  &ic.  Jer. 
vii.  4,  5.  Of  true  prayer  and  worship  in  spi- 
rit and  truth.  See  also,  John,  iv.  24.  Rom. 
xii.  1.    James,  i.  27. 

As  a  contrite  heart  is  the  most  pleasing  temple 
of  God,  so  speaking  with  God,  in  words  of  our 
own,  as  a  child  does  with  his  father,  is  the  best  book 
of  prayer.  The  most  cunning  method,  by  which 
Satan  deceives  many  now,  is,  the  mistaking  an  ex- 
tensive knowledge  and  assurance  of  their  own  ma- 
king for  true  faith  ;  or  trusting  on  some  outward 
forms  of  worship,  sensible  motives,  or  communing 
with  others,  and  pretending  too  soon  to  evangelical 
experiences,  liberties,  and  building  of  souls  up  ; 
though  there  was  never  a  true  change  wrought  in 
their  own  hearts.  For  what  can  all  our  reading, 
prayers,  going  to  church,  and  sacrament  profit  us 
without  this  ?  Before  all  this  shall  be  acceptable 
to  the  Lord,  we  must  be  renewed  in  our  minds, 
and  prove  by  our  own  works  and  deeds,  that  we 
are  the  living  temples  of  God. 

It  is  not  towers  of  stone  or  wood, 

Pillars  or  paintings,  please  our  God ; 

Of  living  stones  his  church  is  built,     • 

It  was  for  souls  Christ's  blood  was  spilt. 

It  is  not  any  splendid  house, 

That  Jesus  calls  his  married  spouse, 

Believers,  Oh,  amazing  love ! 

'Tis  you,  the  Lord,  your  husband  prove. 


SEPTEMBER  8.  259 

Forsake  me  not,  O  Lord,  O  my  God,  be  not  far  from 
me.  Divine  answer.  The  mountains  shall  depart 
and  the  hills  be  removed,  but  my  kindness  shall  not 
depart  from  thee,  neither  shall  the  covenant  of  my 
peace  be  removed,  sailh  the  Lord  that  has  mercy  on 
thee.  0  thou  affiicted^  tossed  with  tempesis  and 
not  comforted,  behold  I -jdiU  lay  thy  stones  with 
fair  colours,  and  lay  thy  foundations  with  sap- 
phires. Jlnd  I  will  make  thy  windows  of  agates, 
and  thy  gates  of  carbuncles,  and  all  thy  borders  of 
pleasant  stones.  Isa.  liv*  10.  15. 

Such  as  never  have  been  destitute  of  comfort,  do 
not  relish  this  word.     O  Lord,  as  thou  hast  once 
quickened  me  by  it  in  great  distress,  I  will  hence- 
forth, evermore  take  hold  of  it,  and  firmly  believe, 
even  without  feeling,  that  thou  wilt  peform  every 
thing  punctually.     Thou  being  my  God,  in  cove- 
nant, wilt  never  forsake  me,  but  order  all  things  for 
my  good ;  adorn,  and  carry  me  through,  though  all 
tempests  should  fall  upon   me,  and  every  thing  be 
dashed  to  pieces.  This,  thy  faithfulness  requires. 
Firm  as  the  word  which  prophets  give, 
Sweet  words,  on  which  believers  live, 
Each  of  them  is  the  voice  of  God, 
Who  spoke  and  spread  the  skies  abroad. 
Oh  !  for  a  strong,  a  lasting  faith, 
To  credit  what  the  Almighty  saith, 
To  embrace  the  message  of  his  son, 
And  call  the  joys  of  heaven  our  own. 
Then  should  the  earth's  old  pillars  shake. 
And  all  the  wheels  of  nature  break, 
Our  steady  souls  shall  fear  no  more 
Than  solid  rocks  when  billows  roar. 


260  SEPTEMBER  9. 

Lean  not  unto  thine  own  understanding.  Prov.  iii.  6. 
Be  not  wise  in  yoor  own  conceits.  Rom.  xii.  16. 
Put  your  neck  under  the  yoke,  and  let  your  soul 
receive  instruction  ;  she  is  hard  at  hand  to  Jind. 
Behold  zn'ithyour  eyes,  how  that  I  have  had  but  lit- 
tle labour,  and  have  gotten  unto  me  much  rest. 
Siracb,  xli.  26,  27.  For  the  wisdom  of  this  zaorld, 
is  foolishness  with  God.   1  Cor.  iii.  19. 

Whosoever  will  do  the  will  of  the  Lord,  and  is 
not  wise  in  his  own  conceit,  avoiding  vain  curiosi- 
ty, and  praying  earnestly,  shall  certainly  know  the 
counsels  &nd  will  of  God.  John,  viii.  17.  But  he 
must  depend  more  upon  the  word  of  God,  than  his 
own  feeling ;  since  our  own  spirit  often  mixes  with 
spiritual  sensations,  and  tempts  us  to  lusts,  fear, 
presumption,  and  pride  ;  and  many  trust  even  to 
their  scandalous  whims  and  fancies,  as  if  all  were 
from  our  Saviour.  O  Lord,  grant  that  I  may  be  al- 
ways jealous  over  myself,  go  in  and  out  with  prayer, 
and  not  err  in  any  thing  to  the  hurt  of  my  soul. 

Thus  saith  the  wisdom  of  the  Lord, 
Blest  is  the  man  that  hears  my  word, 
Keeps  daily  watch  before  my  gates, 
And  at  my  feet  for  mercy  waits. 

The  soul  that  seeks  me,  shall  obtain 
Immortal  wealth  and  heavenly  gain  ; 
Immortal  life  is  his  reward, 
Life,  and  the  favour  of  the  Lord. 

But  the  vile  wretch  that  flies  from  me, 
Doth  his  own  soul  an  injury  : 
Fools,  that  against  my  grace  rebel, 
Seek  death,  and  love  the  road  to  hell. 


SEPTEMBER  10.  261 

And  the  Lord  went  before  them  by  day  in  a  pillar  of  a  ^ 
cloud,  to  lead  them  the  way ;  and  by  night  in  a  pillar 
ofjirey  to  give  them  light ;  to  go  by  day  and  nighty 
^c.  consequently  he  never  left  them.  Exod.  xiii. 
21.  And  the  pillar  of  the  cloud  went  from  before 
their  face  and  stood  behind  them  :  and  it  came  be-, 
iween  the/Camp  of  the  Egyptians  and  the  camp  of 
Israel; -which  prevented  the  meeting  of  them. 
And  the  children  of  Israel  went  into  the  midst  of  the 
sea  upon  the  dry  ground  ;  and  the  waters  were  a 
•mall  unto  them  on  their  right  hand  and  on  their  left. 
Chap.  xiv.  19,  22.  And  all  the  Israelites  passed 
over  Jordan.  Joshua,  iii.  17.  Therefore,  nre  know 
that  all  things  work  together  for  good  to  them  that 
love  God.  Rorn.  yiii  .28. 

We  want  daily,  some  sort  or  other  of  affliction, 
and  burden,  to  serve  us  as  rails,  and  walls,  against 
the  carnal  wanderings  of  our  hearts.  Therefore, 
when  we  meet  with  distress,  we  must  think  it  ia 
the  wall  or  burden  for  the  day,  to  keep  ftom  swerv-% 
ing  and  falling  into  the  snares  of  the  enemy. 

There  is  a  land  of  pure  delight^ 

Where  saints  immortal  reign, 
Infinite  day  excludes  the  night, 

And  pleasures  banish  pain. 
But  tim'rous  mortals  start  and  shrink, 

To  cross  this  narrow  sea, 
And  linger,  shivering  on  the  brink. 

And  fear  to  launch  away. 
Could  we  but  climb  where  Moses  stood, 

And  view  the  landscape  o'er, 
PiJot  Jordan's  streams,  nor  death's  cold  floods 

Should  fright  us  from  the  shore. 


262  SEPTEMBER  11. 

And  it  came  to  pass,  when  Moses  held  tip  his  handy  that 
Israel  prevailed  ;  and  when  he  let  down  his  hand, 
Jlmalek prevailed.  But  Moseses  hands  were  heavy, 
<^c.  Exod.  xvii.  11,12.  J3ncZ /le  the  King  of  Is- 
rael, shot.  And  he,  Elisha,  said,  the  arrow  of  the 
Lord's  deliverance,  and  the  arrow  of  deliverance 
from  Syria,  <^'C.  And  he,  the  King,  smote  thrice 
and  stayed.  And,  the  man  of  God  was  wroth  with 
him,  and  said,  thou  shouldst  have  smitten  five  or 
six  times,  then  hadst  thou  smitten  Syria,  till  thou 
hadst  consumed  it,  S^c.     2  Kings,  xiii.  17,  19. 

The  more  prayer,  the  more  victory.  Every 
groan,  is  a  stroke,  and  a  sling-stone  on  the  head  of 
the  old  man.  Though  he  should  appear  as  a  Go- 
liah,  he  must  die,  but  by  degress.  May  the  Lord 
make  me  instant  in  prayer,  and  give  a  true  desire 
for  his  word. 

Praise  waits  in  Sion,  Lord,  for  thee. 

There  shall  our  vows  be  paid : 
Thou  hast  an  ear,  when  sinners  pray. 

All  flesh  shall  seek  thine  aid. 

Lord,  our  iniquities  prevail. 

But  pard'ning  grace  is  thine, 
And  thou  wilt  grant  us  power  and  skill 

To  conquer  every  sin. 

O  free  the  souls  condemn'd  to  death, 

And  when  thy  saints  complain, 
Let  not  be  said,  that  praying  breath 

Was  ever  spent  in  vain. 


SEPTEMBER  12.  363 

Jlnd  Jesus  bowed  his  head,  and  gave  up  the  ghost. 
John,  xix.  30. 

To  lay  evermore  hold  on  Christ  crucified,  and 
rest  continually  upon  his  meritorious  death,  with  a 
true  faith,  is  the  one  thing  needful  for  a  Christian, 
which  is  the  sum  and  substance,  nay,  the  very 
marrow  of  the  Old  and  New  Testament,  and  above 
all  things,  gives  the  greatest  strength. 

Alas !  and  did  my  Saviour  bleed  ? 

And  did  my  Sov'reign  die? 
Would  he  devote  that  sacred  head 

For  such  a  worm  as  I  ? 

Was  it  for  crimes  that  I  had  done, 

He  groaned  upon  the  tree  ? 
Amazing  pity !  grace  unknown  I 

And  love  beyond  degree. 

Well  might  the  sun  in  darkness  hide, 

And  shut  his  glories  in, 
When  God,  the  mighty  Maker  died, 

For  man,  the  creature's  sin. 

Thus  might  1  hide  my  blushing  face, 

While  his  dear  cross  appears. 
Dissolve  my  heart  in  thankfulness, 

And  melt  my  eyes  to  tears. 

But  drops  of  grief  can  ne'er  repay 

The  debt  of  love  I  owe ; 
Here,  Lord,  I  call  myself  awav, 

'Tis  all  that  I  can  do. 


264  SEPTEMBER  13. 

Our  Father  who  art  in  heaven.  Matt.  vi.  9.  Divine  an- 
swer. Wherefore  come  out  from  among  them,  and 
be  ye  separate,  saith  the  Lord,  and  touch  not  the 
unclean  thing  ;  and  i  will  receive  you,  and  will 
he  a  Father  unto  you,  and  ye  shall  he  my  sons  and 
daughters,  saith  the  Lord  Almighty.  2  Cor.  vi. 
17,  18. 

To  apply  the  gospel  in  general,  without  distinc- 
tion, as  if  all  were  children  of  God,  nay.  in  a  state 
of  temptation,  does  exceeding  great  harm.  St. 
Paul  acts  otherwise  here.  The  heart  must  first  be 
broke  and  discharged  from  the  comfort  of  the 
world.  Christ  comes  only  to  comfort,  namely,  all 
mourners ;  consequently,  every  one  must  mourn 
first,  though  not  in  the  same  degree,  and  to  make 
amends,  but  so  much  that  he  may  be  really  hum- 
bled, sufficiently  desirous  and  prepared  to  receive 
the  comfort.  To  experience  the  gospel,  requires 
time.  Many  pretend  now  too  soon  to  an  evangeli- 
cal state,  insisting  upon  assurance  and  boldness 
which  they  have  not  themselves. 

Jehovah  reigns,  his  throne  is  high, 
His  robes  are  light  and  majesty  ; 
His  glory  shines  with  beams  so  bright, 
No  mortal  can  sustain  the  sight. 

His  terrors  keep  the  world  in  awe. 
His  justice  guards  his  holy  law, 
His  love  reveals  a  smiling  face, 
His  truth  and  promise  seal  the  grace. 

And  will  this  glorious  Lord  descend 
To  be  ray  Father  and  my  friend  ? 
Then  let  my  songs  with  angels  join ; 
Heaven  is  secure  if  God  be  mine. 


SEPTEMBER  14.  265 

Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread.  Matt.  vi.  11.  Di- 
vine answer.  Seek  yejirsi  the  kingdom  of  God, 
and  his  righteousness ;  and  all  these  things  shall 
he  added  unto  you.  Ver.  33. 

By  this  fourth  petition  of  the  Lord's  prayer,  my 
daily  bread  is  well  secured.  Is  this  what  I  live 
upon  to-day  ?  and  suppose  I  had  nothing  for  to- 
morrow, yet  praying  the  same  to-morrow,  I  have 
it  again,  and  so  on  every  day,  if  it  is  only  done  in 
faith.  The  want  of  faith  on  divine  Providence, 
which  is  the  first  article  of  our  creed,  is  generally 
much  complained  of;  but  very  few  are  sensible  of 
the  want  of  faith  in  Christ,  as  to  the  second  article, 
and  this  is  most  wanted  ;  there  sometimes  being 
hardly  one  in  a  hundred,  who  has  a  true,  living  faith 
in  Christ. 

God  reigns  on  high,  but  not  confines 

His  goodness  to  the  skies, 
Through  the  whole  earth  his  bounty  shines 

And  every  want  supplies. 
With  longing  eyes  the  creatures  wait 

On  thee  for  daily  food  ; 
Thy  lib'ral  hand  provides  their  meat,     - 

And  fills  their  mouth  with  good. 
How  kind  are  thy  compassions  Lord ! 

How  slow  thine  anger  moves  ! 
But  soon  he  sends  his  pard'ning  word 

To  cheer  the  souls  he  loves. 
Creatures  with  all  their  endless  race 

Thy  power  and  praise  proclaim, 
But  saints,  that  taste  thy  richer  grace, 

Delight  to  bless  thy  name. 

23 


266  SEPTEMBER  15. 

Our  conversation,  or  our  citizenship,  is  in  heaven, 
Phil.  iii.  20.  Therefore,  rejoice,  because  your 
names  are  written  in  heaven.  Luke,  x.  20.  And 
set  your  affections  on  things  above,  not  on  things 
on  earth.  Col.  iii.  2. 

A  Christian  being  only  a  traveller  through  this 
world,  having,  as  it  were,  a  night's  lodging  in  it, 
does  not  desire  to  have  every  thing  so  convenient ; 
but  since  his  journey's  end,  and  city  is  in  heaven, 
all  his  actions,  sufferings,  prayers,  trade,  and  con- 
versation turn  that  way.  O  Lord,  grant  that  mine 
eyes  may  always  be  fixed  upon  this  mark,  so  as  to 
regulate  all  my  designs  and  doings  accordingly,  ask- 
ing myself  in  every  thing,  whether  it  be  fit  for 
heaven,  and  agreeable  to  the  mind  and  manners  of 
the  celestial  citizens  and  Bridegroom  above  ? 

Raise  thee,  my  soul,  fly  up  and  run 
Through  every  heavenly  street ; 

And  say,  there's  nought  below  the  sun 
That's  worthy  of  thy  feet. 

Thus  will  we  mount  on  sacred  wings, 

And  tread  the  courts  above  ; 
Nor  earth,  nor  all  her  mightiest  things. 

Shall  tempt  our  meanest  love. 

The  glorious  tenants  of  the  place, 
Stand  bending  round  the  throne  ; 

And  saints  and  seraphs  sing  and  praise. 
The  infinite  Three-one. 

Jesus !  O  when  shall  that  dear  day, 

That  joyful  hour  appear, 
When  I  shall  leave  this  house  of  clay. 

To  dwell  amongst  them  there. 


SEPTEMBER  16.  267 

To  him  give  all  the  prophets  witness,  that  through  his 
name,  whosoever  believes  in  him,  shall  receive  re- 
mission of  sins.  Acts,  X.  43.  Chap.  iv.  12.  This 
name  is  as  ointment  poured  forth,  the  fullness  of 
all  grace.  Cant.  i.  3.  It  is  a  strong  tower ;  the 
righteous  runneth  into  it,  and  is  safe.  Prov.  xviii. 
10. 

In  this  name,  we  shall  draw  nigh  to  the  Father, 
in  prayer,  and  not  come  before  him  with  a  strange 
fire  of  our  own  worthiness  of  devotion,  and  he  will 
dnaw  nigh  to  us  again.  James,  iv.  8.  He  will  cer- 
tainly grant  our  petitions,  "and  we  shall  receive, 
that  our  joy  may  be  full."  John,  xvi.  24.  "  For 
the  Lord  is  good  and  ready  to  forgive,  and  plente- 
ous in  mercy  unto  all  them  that  call  upon  him." 
Psal.  Ixxxi.  5.  And  all  these  promises  are  yea 
and  amen  in  Christ,  that  every  one  can  say,  "  the 
Lord  will  receive  my  prayer."  Psal.  vi.  9.  "  Bless- 
ed be  God  who  has  not  turned  away  my  prayer  nor 
his  mercy  from  me  :"  for  he  has  dealt  bountifully 
with  me.  Psal.  Ixvi.  20.  xiii.  6. 

Lift  up  your  eyes  to  the  heavenly  seat, 
Where  your  Redeemer  stays  ; 
g^        Kind  Intercessor,  there  he  sits. 

And  loves,  and  pleads,  and  prays. 
Petitions  now,  and  praise  may  rise, 
And  saints  their  offerings  bring  ; 
The  priest  with  his  own  sacrifice, 

Presents  them  to  the  king. 
Jesus  alone  shall  bear  my  cries, 

Up  to  the  Father's  throne  ; 
He,  dearest  Lord  !  perfumes  my  sighs, 
And  sweetens  every  groan. 


268  SEPTEMBER  17. 

In  thy  presence  is  fulness  of  joy,  at  thy  right  hand  are 
pleasures forevermore.  Psal.  xvi.  l].A7idIsaw 
the  holy  city,  the  new  Jerusalem,  descending  out  of 
heaven  from  God,  prepared  as  a  bride  adorned  for 
her  husband.  Rev.  xxi.  2,  3,  4,  10,  12. 

O  my  dear  Saviour,  being  still  so  very  imperfect, 
and  little  prepared  for  heaven,  grant  that  1  may  be 
more  adorned  with  faith  and  love,,  with  a  heavenly 
mind,  and  spiritual  desires.  And  since  thou  know- 
est  what  I  am  wanting,  and  hath  justified  and  cloth- 
ed me  already,  with  thy  own  garment  and  bloodv 
and  hast  brought  so  many  sons  to  glory,  I  trust, 
that  thou  wilt  inwardly  adorn,  perfect,  and  bring 
me  home  in  due  time. 

Oh,  the  delights,  the  heavenly  joys. 

The  glories  of  the  place, 
Where  Jesus  sends  the  brightest  beam!} 

Of  his  overflowing  grace  r 

Archangels  sound  his  lofty  praise^ 

Through  every  heavenly  street. 
And  lay  their  highest  honours  down,. 

Submissive  at  his  feet. 

Lord,  how  our  souls  are  all  on  fire, 

To  see  thy  blest  abode  ; 
Our  tongues  rejoice  in  tunes  of  praise- 

To  our  incarnate  God. 

And  while  our  faith  enjoys  this  sight,. 

We  long  to  leave  our  clay  ; 
And  wish  thy  fiery  chariots,  Lord, 

To  fetch  our  souls  away. 


SEPTEMBER  18.  269 

Watch  and  pray ;  let  us  be  doing.  Malt.  xxvi.  41,  46. 
Remember  Lot's  wife.  Luke  xvii.  32.  This  is  the 
way,  walk  yein  it^  when  you  turn  to  the  right  hand, 
and  when  you  turn  to  the  left.  Isa.  xxx.  21. 

To  keep  free  from  self-righteousness,  and  false 
joy  and  liberty,  is  the  safest  way.  O  my  dear 
Saviour,  thou  art  my  way,  I  walk  in  thy  name,  I 
live  in  faith,  I  look  upon  thee,  I  cleave  to  thee,  I 
abide  in  thee,  and  my  constant  saying  is,  I  am  jus- 
tified, clean,  and  free  by  thee,  not  to  live  licentious- 
ly, but  to  be  kept  from  it.  For  if  I  was  not  to  rest 
in  thee,  I  should  rest  in  the  flesh  ;  but  being  taken 
up  with  thee,  all  other  things  must  vanish  away, 
and  I  am  able  to  be  watchful,  close,  and  fervent. 

When  my  forgetful  soul  renews 

The  favour  of  thy  grace, 
My  heart  presumes  I  cannot  lose 

The  relish  all  my  days. 

But  ere  one  fleeting  hour  is  past, 

The  flattering  world  employs 
Some  sensual  bait  to  seize  my  taste, 

And  to  pollute  my  joys. 

Then  I  repent  and  vex  my  soul, 

That  I  should  leave  thee  so  ; 
Where  will  those  wild  reflections  roll, 

That  let  a  Saviour  go  ? 

Show  my  forgetful  feet  the  way 

That  leads  to  joys  on  high  ; 
There  knowledge  grows  without  decay, 

And  love  shall  never  die. 
23* 


270  SEPTEMBER  19. 

Walk  before  me,  as  in  my  presence,  and  be  thou  per'- 
feet.  Gen.  xvii.  1.  Fear  God,  and  keep  his  com.' 
mandments,  nil,  not  one  accepted, /or  this  is  the: 
whole  duty  of  all  men.  For  God  shall  bring  everif 
TJi'ork  into  judgment,  zmth  every  secret  thing,  wheth-* 
er  it  be  good,  or  whether  it  be  evil.  Eccles.  xiL 
13,  14. 

Consequently,  all  such  things  as  are  now  called" 
indifferent,  in  their  nature,  will  also  be  arraigned 
and  not  judged  indifferent,  but  either  actually  good^ 
or  actually  evil.  O  !  the  prodigious  harm  that  i» 
done  by  this  false  doctrine  of  innocent  things !  It 
opens  the  door  to  innumerable  sins.  For  though 
our  conscience  often  tells  us,  that  we  should  not  da 
such  things,  as  are  not  actually  good  ;  yet  present- 
ly, the  innocence  is  pleaded,  it  is  called  a  harmless 
thing ;  which  though  it  could  not  be  said  to  be 
good,  yet  it  was  not  evil,  neither,  but  quite  indilTer- 
ent  in  its  nature  ;  thousands  are  drawn  into  the 
snares  of  the  devil.  O  Lord,  grant  that  all  my 
works  be  done  unto  thee,  and  in  thy  presence, 
agreeable  to  thy  commandments,  that  even  my 
leaves  may  not  wither,  and  whatsoever  I  do  may 
prosper  and  abide  for  ever. 

Within  thy  circling  power  I  stand  ; 
On  every  side  I  find  thy  hand  : 
Awake,  asleep,  at  home,  abroad, 
I  am  surrounded  still  with  God. 

O  may  these  thoughts  possess  my  breast, 
Where'er  I  rove,  where'er  I  rest, 
Nor  let  my  weaker  passions  dare 
Consent  to  sin,  for  God  is  there. 


SEPTEMBER  20.  271 

Eerily,  verily,  I  say  unto  you,  except  a  man  be  born 
again  he  cannot  see  the  kingdom  oj  God.  John,iii.  3. 

Consequently,  no  outward  form  of  religion  will 
do  ;  but  we  must  be  spiritually  born  by  the  spirit 
of  God,  and  have  our  hearts  changed,  else  we  can- 
not enter  into  the  kingdom  of  God.  Christ  con- 
firmed it  twice  with  an  oath.  How  is  it  possible 
then,  that  mere  honest  and  moral  men  can  be  sa- 
ved ?  Will  Christ  break  his  double  oath  ?  No, 
surely.  Therefore,  outward,  gross  immoralities 
being  only  blamed  and  rebuked,  moral  Christians 
always  slip  through  ;  and  the  looser  sort  think  that 
they  can  leave  off  their  open  sins  one  time  or  an- 
other, and  so  none  is  duly  concerned  to  be  tho- 
roughly converted  ;  but  the  new  birth,  and  a  real 
change  of  the  heart  being  insisted  upon,  and  Christ 
held  forth  in  this  only  true  way,  every  one  who 
will,  can  be  turned. 

The  second  Adam  shall  restore 

The  ruins  of  the  first, 
Hosanna  to  that  sovereign  power, 

That  new  creates  our  dust. 

When  from  the  curse  he  sets  us  free, 

He  makes  our  natures  clean  ; 
Nor  would  our  Saviour  come,  to  be 

The  minister  of  sin. 

His  spirit  purifies  our  frame, 
And  seals  our  peace  with  God  : 

Jesus  and  his  salvation,  came 
By  water  and  by  blood. 


272  SEPTEMBER  21. 

Why  art  thou  cast  down,  O  my  soul,  and  why  art  thou 
disquieted  within  me  I  Hope  thou  in  God,forIshall 
yet  praise  him,  who  is  the  health  of  my  countenance 
andmyGod.  Psal.  xlii.  2.  Ver.  5,6.  Forlreckon, 
that  the  sufferings  of  this  present  time,  are  not  wor- 
thy to  be  compared  with  the  glory  which  shall  be 
revealed  in  us.  Rom.  viii.  10. 

This  shows  that  even  believers  are  still  in  dis- 
quietness,  but  they  conquer  it  by  faith,  and  hope  to 
the  end.  If  the  Lord  had  said,  that  they  should 
strive,  pray,  and  hope,  till  such  and  such  a  time, 
and  his  help  should  fail,  then  they  might  despair ; 
but  as  he  fixes  no  certain  time,  but  without  limita- 
tion, requires  them  to  hope,  this  keeps  them  from 
impatience  and  despair  ;  should  he  even  tarry  to 
the  end,  they  will  certainly  experience  him  then, 
if  no  sooner,  to  be  faithful  in  his  promises.  O 
Lord,  suffer  not  the  load  to  lie  too  long  and  too  hea- 
vy upon  me,  that  I  may  not  be  unfaithful,  I  trust 
thou  wilt  in  due  time  prove  thyself  to  be  my  help, 
and  thy  word  to  be  true. 

'Tis  God  that  lifts  our  comforts  high 

Or  sinks  them  in  the  grave, 
He  gives  (and  blessed  be  his  name !) 

He  takes  but  what  he  gave. 
Peace,  all  our  angry  passions  then. 

Let  each  rebellious  sigh 
Be  silent  at  his  sovereign  will, 

And  every  murmur  die. 
If  smiling  mercy  crown  our  lives, 

Its  praises  shall  be  spread  ; 
And  we'll  adore  the  justice  too, 
That  strikes  our  comforts  dead. 


SEPTEMBER  22.  273 

Faint  not,  but  be  strong  in  the  Lord  ;  thai  he  may 
confirm  you,  cleave  unto  him  ;  for  the  Lord  Al- 
mighty is  God  alone,  and  beside  him  there  is  no 
other  Saviour.  Hejllhth  all  things  n-ith  his  uns- 
dom.  Sirach,  xxiv.  24,  25. 

O  my  dear  Saviour,  grant  that  I  may  rest  quietly 
and  humbly  in  the  avoiding  all  swerving  and  pre- 
sumptuous actions  which  are  not  commended  to 
me.  He  that  always  covets  novelties,  it  is  a  sign 
that  he  hath  not  as  yet  tasted  the  power  of  the  old 
word  of  God ;  else  he  would  certainly  be  satisfied 
with  it.  Better  daily  to  improve  in  the  power  of 
godliness,  than  in  new  words,  forms,  and  methods. 
To  be  talking  always  of  wounds  is  not  an  apostolic 
method.  "May  the  Lord  quicken  me  by  the  old 
truths,  and  humble  my  heart  evermore,  so  as  to  re- 
ceive them  better,  in  that  which  I  have  heard  from 
the  beginning."  Novelty  is  the  bane  of  souls,  by 
which  we  are  often  grievously  tormented  and  dis- 
tracted. It  is  work  enough  for  a  meek  and  quiet 
soul  to  keep  within  the  bounds  of  a  settled  -mind, 
and  effectually  to  centre  in  God.  How  is  it  possi- 
ble for  such  as  from  a  vain  curiosity,  desire  to  know 
every  thing,  to  enjoy  true  rest  1  What  have  we  to 
do  with  the  world  ?  What  need  to  meddle  with  the 
business  of  others  ?  What  signifies  all  knowledge, 
if  it  does  not  profit  our  souls  ?  Had  we  not  better  to 
be  ignorant  of  some  other  things,  than  to  want  a 
paving  knowledge  of  Christ  1 

O  that  the  Lord  would  guide  my  ways 

To  keep  his  statutes  still : 
O  that  my  God  would  grant  me  grace, 

To  know  and  do  his  will. 


274  SEPTEMBER  23. 

Wash  me  thoroughly  from  mine  iniquity,  and  cleame 
me  from  my  sin.  Psal.  li.  2.  Divine  answer.  The 
blood  of  Jesus  Christ  the  Son  of  God  cleanseih  us 
from  all  sins.  1  John,  i.  6. 

Under  the  ceremonial  law  all  things  were  pur- 
ged with  blood,  and  without  shedding  of  blood 
there  was  no  i  emission  ;  thus  it  is  impossible  that 
any  one  sin,  even  the  least  sinful  motion,  should  be 
taken  away  except  by  the  blood  of  Christ  Jesus. 
This  teaches  us  the  greatness  of  sin,  keeps  us  hum- 
ble, tender,  and  watchful,  and  yet  gives  sufficient 
peace  and  strength  at  the  same  time. 

My  dying  Saviour  and  ray  God, 

Fountain  for  guilt  and  sin, 
Sprinkle  me  ever  with  thy  blood, 

And  cleanse  and  keep  me  clean. 

Wash  me  and  make  me  thus  thy  own  ; 

Wash  me,  and  mine  thou  art ! 
Wash  me,  but  not  my  feet  alone, 

My  hands,  my  head,  my  heart. 

The  atonement  of  thy  blood  apply, 

Till  faith  to  sight  improve  ; 
Till  hope  shall  in  fruition  die, 

And  all  my  soul  be  love. 

For  ever  here,  my  rest  shall  be 

Close  to  thy  bleeding  side  ; 
'Tis  all  my  hope  and  all  my  plea, 

For  me  the  Saviour  died. 


SEPTEMBER  24.  276 

Whatsoever  thou  tahest  in  hand,  remember  the  endf 
and  thou  shalt  never  do  amiss.  Sirach,  vii.  39. 

O !  how  many  trifles  and  vanities  would  be  avoid- 
ed, if  it  were  but  always  duly  considered,  that  we 
could  die  even  this  very  day.  O  Lord!  teach 
me  the  number  of  my  days,  and  since  I  must  and 
will  be  prepared  and  perfect  against  that  decisive 
hour,  suffer  me  not  to  desire,  to  speak,  or  to  do,  or 
so  to  leave  any  thing  undone,  that  may  be  matter  of 
grief  at  last.  How  long  I  may  still  have  to  live,  I 
know  not,  and  being  sensible  that  I  am  not  so 
heavenly  minded  yet,  as  I  could  wish,  I  beseech 
thee  to  fashion  me  according  to  thine  own  pleasure, 
and  preserve  me  every  hour  prepared  in  thee,  that 
death  may  not  overtake  me  in  an  unexpected  time. 

Hark !  from  the  tombs  a  doleful  sound, 

My  ears  attend  the  cry ; 
Ye  living  men,  come  view  the  ground 

Where  you  must  shortly  lie. 

Princes,  this  clay  must  be  your  bed, 

In  spite  of  all  your  towers ; 
The  tall,  the  wise,  the  rev'rend  head 

Must  lie  as  low  as  ours. 

Great  God  !  is  this  our  certain  doom ! 

And  are  we  still  secure  ? 
Still  walking  downward  to  our  tomb, 

And  yet  prepare  no  more  ? 

Grant  us  the  power  of  quick'ning  grace, 

To  fit  our  souls  to  fly ! 
Then,  when  we  drop  this  dying  flesh, 

We'll  rise  above  the  sky. 


276  SEPTEMBER  25. 

What  lack  I  yet  ?  Matt.  xix.  20.  Yet  tackest  thou  one 
thing.  Luke,  xviii.  22.  For,  one  thing  is  need- 
ful.    Luke,  X.  42. 

This  one  thing  needful  is  to  have  Christ ;  and  by 
being  first,  with  Mary,  served  and  treated  by  him, 
we  draw  the  necessary  strength  from  him,  to  serve 
him  again.  He  must  be  first  our  meat,  before  we 
can  feed  on  him,  or  do  any  thing  for  him.  Faith 
receives  grace  first,  from  the  fulness  of  Christ,  and 
being  thus  strengthened,  begins  to  give  and  work 
also,  though  it  were  but  faintly.  However,  it  is 
not  by  our  working  and  giving,  but  by  the  receiv- 
ing in  faith,  that  we  become  Christians,  and  remain 
in  a  perfect  state  of  salvation  ;  since  we  received 
even  with  the  feeble  hands  of  faith,  a  whole  and  per- 
fect Christ.     This  one  thing  is  needful. 

ril  hear  of  nothing  else  beside, 
My  Jesus,  and  him  crucified  ; 

In  him  is  all  I  want ; 
His  blood,  his  meritorious  blood. 
Alone  is  rich,  alone  is  good ; 

For  that  alone  I  pant. 

Sure  none  refuse  to  join  this  song, 
To  praise  our  saviour  all  along 

Their  pilgrimage  below  : 
To  sing,  "  There's  none,  there's  none  beside 
But  Jesus,  and  him  crucified, 

Needful  for  us  to  know." 


SEPTEMBER  26.  277 

What  I  say  unto  you,  I  say  unto  ally  watch.  Mark, 
xiii.  37.  ^ut^awakejirst  to  righteousness,  1  Cor, 
XV.  34. 

Even  believers  are  still  tempted  with  heaviness 
and  drowsiness  in  prayer  :  but  it  is  their  great  cross 
and  burden.  O  Lord  Jesus,  grant  that  mine  eyes 
being  continually  fixed  upon  thee  and  upon  my- 
self, I  may  always  have  grace  not  only  to  believe 
myself  clean  and  justified  in  thee,  but  also  to  keep 
up  my  zeal  and  watchfulness. 

O  thou  who  all  things  canst  control, 
Chase  the  dead  slumbers  from  my  soul ! 
With  joy  and  fear,  with  love  and  awe 
Give  me  to  keep  thy  perfect  law. 

0  may  one  beam  oF  thy  blest  light 
Pierce  through,  dispel  the  shades  of  night ; 
Touch  my  cold  breast  with  heavenly  fire, 
With  holy  conquering  zeal  inspire. 

With  out-stretch'd  hands  and  streaming  eyes, 
Oft  I  begin  to  grasp  the  prize  ; 

1  groan,  I  strive,  I  watch,  I  pray  ; 
But  ah !  how  soon  it  dies  away  ! 

The  deadly  slumbers  soon  I  feel 
Afresh  upon  my  spirit  steal  ; 
Rise,  Lord  !  stir  up  thy  quickening  power, 
And  wake  me,  that  I  sleep  no  more. 


24 


278  SEPTEMBER  27. 

What  things  were  gain  to  me,  these  I  counted  lossfor 
Christ,  yea,  doubtless,  and  I  count  all  things  hut 
loss  for  the  excellency  of  the  knowledge  of  Christ 
Jesus  my  Lord ;  for  whom  I  have  suffered  the  loss 
of  all  things,  and  do  count  them  but  dung,  that^  I 
may  win  Christ,  and  be  found  in  him,  as  my  right- 
eousness. Phil.  iii.  1,  9. 

This  was  the  Hfe  and  constant  mind  of  St.  Paul. 
The  words,  "In  him,  in  Christ,  in  the  Lord,  I  am 
in  Christ,"  &.c.  occur  continually.  I  chose  it  for 
my  motto  also.  It  shall  be  my  great  tower,  my 
strong  fortress,  my  sweet  paradise,  mine  only  ele- 
ment in  life.  Here  I  will  take  up  my  abode  for 
eyer.  It  is  good  for  us  to  be  here ;  here  let  us 
make  tabernacles.  Here  death  shall  find  me  at 
last. 

Had  I  ten  thousand  gifts  beside, 
I'd  cleave  to  Jesus  crucified. 

And  build  on  him  alone  ;    . 
For  no  foundation  is  there  given, 
On  which  I'd  place  my  hopes  of  heaven, 

But  Christ  the  corner  stone. 

Professing  Christ  I  all  profess  ; 
Wisdom,  and  strength,  and  righteousness, 

And  sanctity  complete  ; 
Bold  in  his  name  I  dare  draw  nigh 
Before  the  Ruler  of  the  sky, 

And  all  his  Justice  meet^ 


SEPTEMBER  28.  279 

What  must  I  do  to  be  saved  ?  Divine  answer.  Be- 
lieve in  the  Lord  Jesus,  and  thou  shalt  h%  saved., 
and  thy  house.  Acts,  xvi.  31. 

Faith  is  not  a  confidence  of  our  own  making,  but 
it  is  God  that  works  it  in  a  contrite  and  repenting 
heart.  This  faith  as  Luther  in  his  preface  to  the 
epistle  to  the  Romans  o!)serves,  purifies  the  heart, 
destroys  the  old  Adam,  overcomes  the  world,  en- 
genders us  anew,  and  changes  us  in  heart,  mind, 
and  all  the  powers  and  faculties  of  the  soul ;  which 
is  the  true  protestant  faith,  and  not  that  we  only 
think  and  say,  I  believe.  By  this  we  must  try 
our  faith.  All  true  hehevers  have  received  it  un- 
der a  sense  of  our  holy  contrition,  sorrow,  and  ter- 
rors. If  we  feel  something  of  this,  and  apply  to 
Christ  by  prayer,  for  faith  and  grace,  we  have  a 
sure  mark  for  faith  already  :  for  if  we  did  not  be- 
lieve, we  would  not  pray.  And  he  that  daily  clean- 
ses himself  in  the  blood  of  Christ,  has  true  faith 
and  hope  already,  though  he  is  but  weak,  and  does 
not  taste  any  joy. 

Ye  dying  souls  that  sit 
In  darkness  and  distress. 
Look  from  the  borders  of  the  pit. 
To  Christ's  recovering  grace. 

Sinners  shall  hear  his  sound  ; 
Their  thankful  tongues  shall  own, 
Their  righteousness  and  strength  is  found 
In  Christ,  the  Lord,  alone. 

In  him  shall  Israel  trust, 
And  see  their  guilt  forgiven  : 
God  will  pronounce  the  sinners  just, 
And  take  the  saints  to  heaven. 


2B0  SEPTEMBER  29. 

Wo  unto  hirrif  through  whom  qff'ences  come.  What 
wo  then  must  befall  such  immoral  teachers,  as 
give  offence  to  youth  ?  take  heed  to  yourselves. 
Luke,  xvii.  1,  3.  Abstain  from  all  appearance  of 
evily  that  ye  may  be  blameless  and  harmless^  the 
sons  of  God,  without  rebuke  in  the  midst  of  a 
crooked  and  perverse  nation^  among  whom  you 
shine  as  lights  in  the  world.   Phil.  ii.  15. 

Lord  !  I  desire  also  to  shine  in  good  works  and 
fruits  of  faith,  but  thou  art  more  desirous  to  give, 
than  I  am  to  receive  it ;  for  it  tends  to  thy  own 
glory,  and  thou  lovest  the  growing  of  my  graces 
more  than  L  Therefore  I  will  give  myself  up  to 
thee,  for  to  purge,  cleanse,  and  make  me  fruitful, 

O  Lord  my  stubborn  will  subdue, 
Create  my  ruin'd  frame  anew  ; 

Dispel  my  darkness  by  thy  light : 
Into  ail  truth  my  spirit  guide, 
But  from  mine  eye  for  ever  hide 

All  things  displeasing  in  thy  sight. 

Be  heaven  now  my  soul's  abode, 
Hid  be  my  life  with  Christ  in  God, 

My  spirit,  Lord,  be  one  with  thine  ; 
Let  all  my  works  in  thee  be  wrought, 
And  fiird  with  thee  be  all  my  thought 

Till  in  me  thy  full  likeness  shinQ, 


SEPTEMBER  30.  281 

As  Christ  hath  suffered  for  us  in  thejiesh,  arm  your- 
selves likewise  with  the  same  mind ;  for  he  that 
sufferethinthejleshhas  ceased  from  si7i.  1  Pet. 
iv.  1. 

By  outward  affliction  the  Lord  very  often  morti- 
fies our  inward  corruptions  of  the  heart,  and  facil- 
itates our  victory.  But  nothing  will  bring  us  soon- 
er to  loathing  of  sin  and  destroying  its  power,  than 
a  true  consideration  of  Christ's  suffering  and  dying 
for  us ;  for  his  death  on  the  cross  produces  true 
repentance,  by  which  the  heart  is  broken  and  yet 
comforted  ;  without  a  broken  heart,  all  the  boas- 
ting of  Christ's  cross,  blood,  and  wounds,  are  no- 
thing but  a  vain  babbUng,  and  the  play  work  of  our. 
fancies. 

Father,  I  bless  thy  gentle  hand  ! 

How  kind  was  thy  chastising  rod ! 
That  forc'd  my  conscience  to  a  stand, 

And  brought  my  wandering  soul  to  God  ! 

Foolish  and  vain  I  went  astray 
Ere  I  had  felt  thy  scourges,  Lord, 

I  left  my  guide  and  lost  my  way. 
But  now  1  love  and  keep  thy  word. 

'Tis  good  for  me  to  wear  the  yoke, 

For  sin  is  apt  to  rise  and  swell ; 
'Tis  good  to  bear  my  Father's  stroke. 

That  I  might  learn  his  statutes  well. 

Thy  hands  have  made  my  mortal  frame, 
Thy  Spirit  form'd  my  soul  within : 

Teach  me  to  know  thy  wondrous  name, 
And  guard  me  safe  from  death  and  sin. 
24* 


282  OCTOBER  1. 

Weep  not :  Behold  the  lion  of  the  tribe  of  the  Judah, 
the  root  of  David f  has  prevailed.  Rev.  v.  5.  He 
rose  triumphantly  and  destroyed  the  works  of  the 
devil ;  therefore  sin  shall  not  have  dominion  over 
us.  Rom.  vi.  14. 

Many  complain,  that  though  they  will  not  turn 
back,  yet  they  have  no  power  to  advance  further. 
If  this  is  thy  case,  my  reader,  remember  that  the 
enemy  of  souls  will  discourage  thee.  Go  on  pray- 
ing, and  venture  it  evermore  upon  the  Lord.  Con- 
sider how  he  has  awakened  you  at  first,  how  often 
he  has  heard  your  prayers  afterward,  and  assisted 
you  in  many  hard  struggles.  Surely  he  will  help 
you  now  also  !  if  that  will  not  do,  begin,  as  it  were, 
afresh,  acknowledge  yourself  guilty  in  every  re- 
spect, and  as  the  chief  of  sinners,  plead  for  mercy, 
and  be  instant  in  your  humble  supplications  ;  look- 
ing at  the  same  time  upon  yourselves  as  reconciled 
and  pardoned  in  Christ,  in  spite  of  all  your  misery  : 
then  you  will  soon  make  a  better  progress.  To 
despair  of  our  own  strength  is  good !  but  we  must 
never  despair  of  the  power  of  Christ,  who  is  risen 
from  the  dead,  but  be  sure  to  overcome  with  him 
at  last.  He  will  certainly  help  you  in  the  due  and 
best  season. 

Hell  and  thy  sins  resist  thy  course, 
But  hell  and  sin  are  vanquish'd  foes ; 

Thy  Jesus  nail'd  them  to  the  cross. 
And  sung  the  triumph  when  he  rose. 

He  dies,  and  in  that  dreadful  night, 
Did  all  the  powers  of  hell  destroy  ; 

Rising  he  brought  our  heaven  to  light. 
And  took  possession  of  the  joy. 


OCTOBER  2.  283 

Whom  the  Lord  loveth  he  chastenethj  and  scour- 
geth  every  son  whom  he  receiveth.  If  ye  en- 
dure chastening,  God  dealeth  with  you  as 
with  sons.  For  what  son  is  he  whom  the 
Father  chasteneth  nof?  But  he  chasteneth 
us  for  our  profit,  that  we  might  be  partakers 
of  his  holiness,  Heb,  xii.  6,   10. 

To  these  chastenings  also  belong  outward  afflic- 
tions, which  are  precious  means  and  sanctified  to 
believers.  O  my  dear  heavenly  Father  !  thou  art 
only  pleased  with  a  true,  filial  confidence,  but  I  am 
still  of  a  distrusting  heart,  when  any  thing  comes 
upon  me  on  a  sudden.  Grant  that  I  may  always 
entertain  the  best  hope  of  thee,  fear  no  adversity, 
or  look  upon  it  as  a  sign  of  displeasure,  but  of 
love  ;  really  believing  it  to  be  intended  as  a  bless- 
ing to  my  good.  Whatever  thy  providence  may 
order,  let  me  only  be  convinced  of  thy  paternal 
affection,  and  fall  in  with  thy  salutary  designs. 

So  for  my  sin  I  justly  feel 

Thy  disciphne,  O  God  ; 
Yet  wait  the  gracious  moment  still, 

'Till  thou  remove  thy  rod. 

For  I  have  found,  'tis  good  for  me 

To  bear  my  Father's  rod  : 
Afflictions  make  me  learn  thy  law, 

And  hve  upon  my  God. 

This  is  the  comfort  I  enjoy 

When  new  distress  begins  : 
1  read  thy  word,  I  run  thy  way, 

And  hate  my  former  sins. 


284  OCTOBER  3. 

The  entrance  of  the  word  gives  light:  Itgiveth 
understanding  to  the  simple.  Psal.  cxix.  130. 
Order  my  steps  in  thy  word;  and  let  not  any 
iniquities  have  dominion  over  me.  Ver.  33. 

We  may  have  a  clear  sight  and  a  real  taste  of 
the  gospel,  and  yet  be  soon  deprived  of  it  again,  if 
we  do  not  walk  in  godly  simplicity  and  poverty  of 
spirit,  for  Christ  will  have  none  but  humble  and 
child-like  disciples.  But  thus  abiding  always  in 
the  word  and  in  Christ,  we  will  come  to  great  and 
lasting  assurance  ;  for  neither  a  sweet  sense,  nor 
even  faith  itself,  but  Christ  alone  is  the  foundation 
of  our  salvation,  whom  the  weakest  as  well  as  the 
strongest'  behever  receives.  And  we  must  believe 
first,  before  we  can  feel.  To  trust  only  on  feeling 
is  not  true  faith,  and  does  not  last  long. 

Thy  mercies  fill  the  earth,  O  Lord, 

How  good  thy  works  appear  ! 
Open  mine  eyes  to  read  thy  word, 

And  see  thy  wonders  there. 
When  once  it  enters  to  the  mind 

It  spreads  such  light  abroad, 
The  meanest  souls  instruction  find, 

And  raise  their  thoughts  to  God. 
'Tis  like  the  sun,  a  heavenly  light 

That  guides  us  all  the  day. 
And  through  the  dangers  of  the  night 

A  lamp  to  lead  our  way. 
Since  Fm  a  stranger  here  below, 

Let  net  thy  path  be  hid, 
But  mark  the  road  my  feet  should  gp, 

And  be  my  constant  guide. 


OCTOBER  4.  285 

Thj/  genthnessy  discipline,  hath  made  me  great, 
Psal.  xviii.  35. 

It  is  not  so  easy  a  thing  as  may  be  imagined,  to 
be  kept  humble.  Great  gifts  require  great  afflic- 
tions, or  other  humbling  disciplines.  Without  these 
we  are  in  danger  of  being  lifted  up,  especially  if  we 
slight  the  inward  abominations  of  the  heart,  and 
will  have  the  conquest  of  sin  to  be  no  more  than 
the  killing  of  a  fly,  as  many  vainly  pretend  in  our 
days.  Odd  heroes,  those,  and  a  poor  victory  in- 
deed !  what  crown  can  they  expect  for  it  ?  those 
that  extenuate  and  lessen  sin,  lessen  the  merits  and 
power  of  Christ  also. 

Father,  here  to  thee  I  cry, 
Thee  in  Jesus'  name  conjure, 

With  my  one  request  comply, 
Make  me  humble,  make  me  poor. 

This  of  all  thy  gifts  impart. 
When  I  am  of  this  possess'd. 

When  thou  givest  a  humble  heart. 
If  thou  canst  withhold  the  rest, 

Wean  my  soul  and  keep  it  low, 
Do  not  with  thy  gifts  destroy  ; 

Lowliness  of  heart  bestow, 
Give  me  this,  or  take  my  joy. 

If  with  me  thou  wilt  not  stay, 

Let  my  comfort  all  depart, 
Take  my  joy  and  peace  away, 

Leave  me  but  an  humble  heart, 


286  OCTOBER  6. 

Give  ear  to  my  prayer,  O  God,  and  hide  not  thyself 
from  my  supplication.  Psal.lv.  1.  Christ's  an- 
swer. Verily,  verily,  I  say  unto  you,  whatsoever 
ye  shall  ask  the  Father  in  my  name,  he  will  give 
it  you.  John  xvi.  23.  For  the  Father  himself 
lovethyou.  ver.  27.  He  has  promised,  before 
they  call,  I  will  answer,  and  lohilst  they  are 
speaking,  I  will  hear.  Isa.  Ixv.  24.  Therefore 
I  say  unto  you,  what  things  soever  you  desire 
when  ye  pray,  believe  that  you  receive  them,  and 
you  shall  have  them.  Mark,  xi.  24. 

He  that  converses  much  and  is  humbly  confident 
with  God  in  prayer,  shall  certainly  be  heard  ;  and 
these  answers  of  prayer  are  undeniable  evidences 
of  the  truth,  faithfulness,  and  love  of  God,  and 
greatly  strengthen  his  faith,  and  at  last  bring  him 
to  be  intimately  acquainted  with  him.  The  more 
we  receive,  the  more  we  are  enlightened  to  see 
how  much  there  is  still  wanting.  This  stirs  us  up 
to  more  frequent  prayer,  and  to  desire  evermore  ; 
and  the  more  we  desire  and  believe  that  we  shall 
receive  it,  the  more  shall  be  granted.  Unbelief 
receives  nothing.  Matt.  xiii.  68.  But  faith  opens 
all  the  treasures  of  God,  and  never  goes  away 
empty. 

Because  on  me  they  set  their  love, 

I'll  save  them,  saith  the  Lord  : 
I'll  bear  their  joyful  souls  above 

Destruction  and  the  sword. 

My  grace  shall  answer  when  they  calL 

In  trouble  I'll  be  nigh  : 
My  power  shall  help  them  when  they  faU> 

And  raise  them  when  they  die. 


OCTOBER  6.  287 

If  I  yet  pleased  men-,  I  should  not  be  the  servant  of 
Christ.  Gal.  i.   10.     Let  every  one  of  us  please 
his  neighbour  for  his  good  edifcation.  Rom,  xv. 
2.     Fear  or  love  of  men  and  hypocrisy,  very  of- 
ten are  nearly   allied.     A  man  that  flattereth  his 
neighbour,  spreadeth  a  net  for  his  feet.    Prov. 
xxix.  5.     But  he  that  rebuketh  aman,  afterwards 
shall  fnd  more  favour  than  he  that  fattereth  with 
the  tongue.  Chap,  xxvii.  23. 
We  are  ever  inclined  to   extremes,  even  when 
God  has  begun  his  work  in  our  soul.     At  one  time 
we  are  apt  to  run  into  a  false  activity  for  the  con- 
version of  others,  trusting  too  much  on  our  own 
sufficiency    and  strength  ;  at  other  times,  perhaps 
we  fall  into  too  much  remissness  and  inactivity  for 
the  salvation  of  otheis.     May  the  Lord,   therefore, 
always  guide  me  to  steer  the  middle  course,   so  as 
to  walk  in  all  singleness  and  humility  of  heart,  as 
well  in  true  fervency  of  spirit,  faith,   and  love,  that 
it  may  be  said,  I  believe,   therefore  do  I  speak. 
Grant,  O  my  dear  Saviour,  that  1  may  shine  as  a 
light  and  be  useful  to  all  about  me,  never  seeking 
my  oivn,  but  only  the  salvation  and  good  of  others, 
with  unfeigned  love.     O  that  thy  love  may  con- 
strain me  in  all  things  !  Amen. 
My  own  glory  still  I  seek. 

Still  I  covet  human  praise  ; 
Still  in  all  I  do  or  speak, 

Thee  I  wrong  and  rob  thy  grace. 
And  must  that  which  is  so  good, 

Evil  prove  to  sinful  me  ? 
Poison  shall  I  draw  from  food  ? 

Sin  from  grace,  and  pride  from  thee  'L 
O  forbid  it,  humble  love ! 

Hide  me,  O  my  Father,  hide, 
Far  away  this  snare  remove. 
Save  me  from  the  sin  of  pride. 


288  OCTOBER  7. 

Whosoever  is  born  of  God,  doth  not  commit  sin.  i 
John,  iii.  9.  For  this  is  the  love  of  God,  that  ye 
keep  his  commandments.  1  John,  v.  3.  But  how 
can  that  be  possible,  are  we  not  weak  men  ?  An- 
swer. Would  God  require  it  from  us  if  it  was  im- 
possible ?  Is  it  not  farther  said,  And  his  command- 
ments  are  not  grievous.  Now  if  they  are  grie- 
vous to  you,  you  are  not  born  anew,  consequent- 
Jy  not  in  faith,  and  therefore  not  strong  in  the 
Lord.  Eph.  vi.  10.  For  uihatsoever  is  horn  of 
God-,  overcomes  the  world,  and  this  is  the  victory 
that  overcomes  the  world,  even  our  faith.  1  John, 
V.  3,  4. 

Therefore,  pray  earnestly  to  God,  for  faith,  read 
diligently  the  word  of  God,  avoid  every  sin,  and 
shun  the  occasion  of  it,  and  all  that  may  be  a  hin- 
drance of  what  is  good.  If  you  meet  with  difficul- 
ties, faint  not,  but  be  instant ;  and  pray  not  only 
mornings  and  evenings  out  of  your  prayer  book,  but 
fall  down  also  upon  your  knees  at  other  times  of 
the  day,  and  pray  with  your  own  words,  from  the 
heart.  And  though  you  should  not  find  directly  the 
desired  effect,  you  must  not  give  over,  but  go  on, 
and  try  again  and  again.  By  this  method  you  will 
succeed,  and  by  none  else  ;  this  is  carefully  to  be 
observed.  O  Lord  !  having  prayed  for  nothing  more 
than  for  faith,  all  the  days  of  my  life,  I  trust  thou 
wilt  not  only  grant,  but  keep  it  also  to  the  end,  and 
carry  me  through  all  difficulties.     Amen. 

Till  thou  anew  my  soul  create, 

Still  may  I  strive,  and  watch,  and  pray, 

Humbly  and  confidently  wait, 
And  long  to  see  thy  perfect  day. 


OCTOBER  8.  28^ 

He  that  shall  endure  unto  the  end,  the  same  shall 
be  saved.  Matt.  xxiv.  13.  Behold  I  come  quick- 
ly ;  hold  that  fast  which  thou  hast,  that  no  man 
take  thy  crown.  Rev.  ii.  11.  Wherefore  let  him 
that  thinketh  he  standeth,  take  heed  lest  he  fall. 
1  Cor.  X.  12. 

He  that  stands  in  faith,  and  by  nature  is  of  a 
cheerful  temper,  must  not  magnify  the  measure  of 
his  own  faith,  and  undervalue  that  of  weaker  souls, 
for  fear  of  falling  away.  He  who  knows  the  nature 
and  power  of  temptations,  will  not  discourage  the 
weak,  nor  insist  too  much  upon  particular  enjoy- 
ments and  sensible  assurance,  which  are  not  the 
constant  witness  and  marks  of  faith.  The  holy 
Spirit  himself  is  the  earnest  and  seal  of  adoption, 
who  is  to  be  known  not  only  by  this  joy,  but  by  all 
his  other  fruits  and  operations.  To  trust  too  much 
upon  feeling,  disturbs  our  peace,  as  soon  as  it  is 
gone ;  but  to  rely  on  the  word  of  God  preserves  a 
settled  assurance. 

Jesus,  shall  I  never  be 
Firmly  grounded  upon  thee  ? 
Strong  in  faith  I  seem  this  hour, 
Stript  tiie  next  of  all  my  power. 

Plant,  and  root,  and  fix  in  me, 
All  the  rnind  that  was  in  thee  ; 
Settled  peace  I  then  shall  find 
When  I  am  renew'd  in  mind. 

Grant  that  ev'ry  moment  I 
May  believe  and  feel  thee  nigh, 
Stedfastly  behold  thy  face, 
'Stablish'd  with  abiding  grace. 

25 


290  OCTOBER  9. 

If  any  man  have  not  the  Spirit  of  Christ  (but 
the  spirit  of  this  world)  he  is  none  of  his, 
Rom.  viii.  9.     See  also,  verses  7,  8,  14. 

For  not  only  gross  wickedness,  but  even  a  carnal 
mind  and  the  friendship  of  this  world  is  enmity 
against  God.  Phil.  iii.  18,  19.  Jam.  iv.  4.  But 
how  do  1  know  that  I  have  the  spirit  of  Christ  ? 
Answer.  I  have  prayed  for  him  earnestly  :  this 
cannot  be  in  vain.  Luke,  xi.  13.  He  works  also 
hatred  and  sorrow  of  sin,  rebukes,  comforts,  and 
drives  me  to  Christ,  and  to  prayers.  This  is  his 
abiding  witness,  built  upon  the  word  of  God,  which 
no  man  of  this  world,  but  even  the  weakest  believer 
can  have. 

Holy,  and  true,  and  righteous  Lord, 
I  wait  to  prove  thy  perfect  will, 

Be  mindful  of  thy  gracious  word, 
And  stamp  me  with  thy  Spirit's  seal. 

The  hatred  of  the  carnal  mind 
Out  of  my  flesh  at  once  remove  ; 

Give  me  a  tender  heart,  resign'd, 
And  pure,  and  full  of  faith  and  love. 

Within  me  thy  good  Spirit  place. 

Spirit  of  health,  and  love,  and  power  ; 

And  grant  me  such  victorious  grace, 
That  inbred  sin  may  reign  no  more. 

Purge  me  from  every  sinful  blot, 

My  idols  all  be  cast  aside  : 
Cleanse  me  from  every  evil  thought, 

From  all  the  filth  of  self,  and  pride. 


OCTOBER  10.  291 

Whosoever  hath^  to  him  shall  be  given,  and  he  shall 
have  more  abundance.  Matt.  xiii.  12.  For,  the  wa- 
ter that  I  shall  give  him,  shall  be  in  him  a  well  of 
water,  springing  up  into  everlasting  life.  John, 
iv.  14. 

Of  the  remarkable  increase  of  the  kingdom  of 
God,  even  from  the  least  beginning,  see  also.  Matt, 
xiii.  31,  33;  and  that  beautiful  figure,  Ezek. 
xlvii.  1,  12.  This  well,  therefore  being  once  opened 
to  you,  it  is  highly  necessary  to  draw  evermore  the 
living  water  out  of  it  by  prayers,  since  it  runs  freely 
then.  But  if  you  begin  to  be  slothful  and  distract- 
ed, not  abiding  closely  in  Christ,  by  true  watchful- 
ness, as  in  the  presence  of  God,  your  spirit  \^ill 
soon  be  dried  up  ;  that  afterwards  you  will  hardly 
be  able  with  the  most  anxious  groans,  to  draw  as  it 
were  one  single  drop  out  of  the  deep  of  this  foun- 
tain. O  Lord  !  grant  that  I  may  uninteruptedly  re- 
main in  thee  and  in  thy  presence,  and  always  live  in 
thy  communion,  as  the  fish  in  the  water. 

Cheerful  I  feast  on  heavenly  fruit, 

And  drink  the  pleasures  down, 
Pleasures  that  flow  hard  by  the  foot 

Of  the  eternal  throne. 

But  ah  !  how  soon  my  joys  decay, 

How  soon  my  sins  arise, 
And  snatch  the  heavenly  scene  away 

From  these  lamenting  eyes  ! 

When  shall  the  time,  dear  Jesus,  when 

The  shining  day  appear, 
That  I  shall  leave  those  clouds  of  sin, 

And  guilt,  and  darkness  here  ? 


292  OCTOBER  11. 

Who  is  like  unto  the  Lord  our  God,  who  dwelleth  on 
high  ?  Who  humhleth  himself  to  behold  the  things 
that  are  in  heaven  and  in  the  earth  ?  He  ^aiseth  up 
the  poor  out  of  the  dust,  and  lifteth  the  needy  out  of 
the  dunghill,  Psal.  cxiii.  6,  6,  7.  He  hath  scat- 
tered the  proud  in  the  imagination  of  their  hearts, 
(though  outwardly  they  seem  to  be  humble  :)  He 
hath  put  down  the  mighty  from  their  seats,  (as  he 
did  to  him  thatsaid,  is  not  this  great  Babylon  ?)  and 
exalted  them  of  low  degree.  Luke,  i.  54.  Therefore 
teek  meekness,  humbleness.  Zeph.  ii.  3. 

All  things  in  heaven,  even  the  highest  angels, 
being  so  exceedingly  humble  before  the  majesty  of 
God,  (Isa.  vi.)  how  much  more  shall  we  be  laid 
low  upon  the  earth,  who  still  have  so  much  sin  ? 
Even  the  most  righteous  have  still  some  hidden  cor- 
ruption left  in  their  hearts,  which  appears  to  them 
more  and  more  as  they  grow  in  grace.  For  though 
we  should  not  feel  it  always,  we  must  not  imagine 
that  there  is  none  ;  it  lies  concealed  only,  and  is  so 
much  more  dangerous,  as  perhaps  it  may  be  a  be- 
ginning of  presumption  and  backsliding.  Therefore 
take  care  and  be  not  proud.  For  such  as  pretend 
to  have  done  with  sin,  are  not  of  the  right  spirit. 

Lo  !  at  thy  feet  with  awful  fear 

The  adoring  armies  fall ! 
With  joy  they  shrink  to  nothing  there 

Before  the  eternal  All. 

There  I  would  lie  with  all  the  host, 

In  duty  and  in  bliss  : 
While  less  than  nothing  I  eould  boMt, 

And  vanity  confess. 


OCTOBER  12.  293 

Through  (vain)  desire  a  man  having  separated 
himself,  seeJceth  and  intermeddleth  with  all 
wisdom,  Prov.  xviii.  1.  But  the  fruit  of  the 
spirit  is  love,  joy.,  peace,  long-suffering,  gen- 
tleness, goodness,  faith,  meekness,  temperance^ 
^c.  Gal.  V.  22.  23. 

Bawling,  judging  and  revelling  does  not  become 
a  Christian.  The  Lord  was  not  in  the  strong  wind, 
nor  in  the  earthquake,  nor  in  the  fire,  but  in  a  still 
small  voice.  1  Kings,  xix.  11,  12.  He  that  takes 
offence  at  every  thing  is  still  blind  ;  and  who  can 
bear  nothing,  is  but  very  weak.  Such  should  re- 
member that  it  is  said,  "  Destroy  it  not,"  &.c.  Isa. 
Ixv.  8.  Not  only  the  grosser  sort  of  divisions,  but 
also  such  well-meaning,  particular  separations  and 
alterations,  as  are  imprudently  made  at  improper 
times  and  places,  do  a  great  deal  of  harm,  and  dis- 
turb the  general  harmony  and  mutual  confidence  of 
Christian  brethren.  For  some  religious  exercises 
are  good  in  themselves,  but  brotherly  love  and 
harmony  is  better  still.  The  true  Spirit  of  God  is 
no  sectarian,  makes  no  divisions,  is  far  from  boast- 
ing, and  uses  no  arts  and  cunning  tricks.  Thus 
you  may  try  the  spirits. 

Lo  !  what  an  entertaining  sight 

Are  brethren  that  agree, 
Brethren  whose  cheerful  hearts  unite 

In  bands  of  piety. 

When  streams  of  love  from  Christ  the  spring 

Descend  to  every  soul. 
And  heavenly  peace  with  balmy  wing, 

Shades  and  bedews  the  whole. 
25^^ 


2»4  OCTOBER  15. 

He  that  has  pity  upon  the  poor,  lendeth  unto 
the  LdOrd,  and  that  vjhich  he  has  given^  will 
he  pay  him  again.  Prov.  xix.  17.  See  also, 
Acts,  iv.  32,  35.  2  Cor.  ix.  6,  15.  1  Tim. 
yi.  6,  10,  19. 

Who  would  not  willingly  give  charity  ?  Faith 
always  expects  and  receives  something  for  that  pur- 
pose from  the  treasure  of  God,  who  is  rich  enough 
when  we  have  nothing.  God  bestows  his  gifts  upon 
us,  and  gives  us  also  the  heart  to  bestow  them 
again  upon  others,  consequently  he  rewards  his  own 
gifts,  which  passed  only  through  our  hands,  and 
crowns  his  own  works.  Note,  1  Chron.  xxix.  14,  16. 

Blest  is  the  man  whose  bowels  move, 
And  melt  with  pity  to  the  poor ; 

Whose  soul  by  sympathizing  love 
Feels  what  his  fellow-saints  endure. 

His  heart  contrives  for  their  relief 

More  good  than  his  own  hands  can  do  ; 

He  in  the  time  of  general  grief, 
Shall  find  the  Lord  has  bowels  too. 

His  soul  shall  live  secure  on  earth, 
With  secret  blessings  on  his  head, 

When  drought,  and  pestilence,  and  dearth 
Around  him  multiply  their  dead. 

Or  if  he  languish  on  his  couch, 

God  will  pronounce  his  sins  forgiven, 

Will  save  him  with  a  heahng  touch, 
Or  tak«  his  soul  to  hoaven. 


OCTOBER  14.  t95 

Whosoever  shall  humble  himself  as  this  Utile 
child,  the  same  is  greatest  in  the  kingdom  of 
heaven.  Matt,  xviii.  4.  For  every  one  that 
exaheth  himself  shall  be  abased;  and  he  that 
humbleth  himself  shall  be  exalted.  Luke,  xviii. 
14. 

If  we  had  learned  all  things,  yet  we  could  never 
be  said  to  have  learned  humility  enough.  For 
though  we  have  once  been  thoroughly  convinced, 
that  we  deserve  to  be  damned,  nay  the  chief  of 
sinners,  yet  are  we  still  in  danger  of  being  puffed 
up.  An  humble  mind  does  not  know  itself;  he  that 
believeth  himself  to  be  humble  enough,  is  very  far 
from  really  being  so.  Oh  my  dear  Saviour  !  give 
me  thy  humble  mind,  to  be  willingly  little  and  hum- 
ble, so  as  never  to  delight  in  honour,  since  it  does 
not  belong  to  me. 

Show  me,  Father,  what  I  am, 

Show  me  what  in  Christ  thou  art  ; 

All  my  glory,  all  my  shame : 

Give  me,  Lord,  an  humble  heart. 

Listen  to  my  cc?iseless  cries, 

Mean  and  little  may  I  be, 
Base  and  vile  in  my  own  eyes, 

Griev'd  at  my  own  misery. 

Show,  and  then  my  sickness  cure ; 

Make  me  know  as  I  am  known, 
Wound  my  spirit,  make  me  poor, 

Break,  O  break  this  heart  of  stone. 


296  OCTOBER  15. 

As  the  kartpanteth  after  the  water -hroohs,  so  pant- 
eth  my  soul  after  thee-,  O  God.  My  soul  thirsteth 
for  God,  for  the  living  God.  Psal.  xlii.  2,  3. 
Divine  answer.  Ho.-,  every  one  that  thirsteth,  come 
ye  to  the  waters,  and  he  that  hath  no  money,  come 
ye,  buy  and  eat ;  yea,  come,  buy  wine  and  7nilk 
without  money  and  tcithout  price.  Hearken  dili- 
gently unto  me,  and  eat  ye  that  ichich  is  good,  and 
let  your  soul  delight  itself  in  fatness.  Isa.  Iv.  1 , 2. 

There  is  a  great  difference  between  a  legal  and 
a  faint-hearted  soul ;  the  former  is  puffed  up  with 
self-righteousness,  the  latter  humbly  thirsts  after 
Christ's  righteousness  ;  therefore  he  is  not  under 
the  law,  but  has  grace  already.  It  is  only  the 
child  or  the  hew  man  actually  born,  that  can  cry 
and  thirst.  And  though  he  cannot  so  fully  believe 
it,  yet  to  have  grace,  is  one  thing,  and  to  feel  and 
enjoy  it,  is  another.  Therefore  let  not  the  weak 
be  confounded,  which  is  done  very  easily,  the  ene- 
my himself  contributing  to  it,  as  much  as  he  can  ; 
but  let  it  be  declared  even  to  the  weakest,  that  they 
are  actually  saved,  as  soon  as  ,they  are  earnestly 
panting  and  willing  to  receive  all  without  price. 
Matt.  V.  3. 

Eternal  Wisdom  has  prepar'd 

A  soul-reviving  feast, 
And  bids  our  longing  appetites 

The  rich  provisions  taste. 

O !  glorious  God,  what  can  we  pay, 

For  favours  so  divine  ? 
We  would  devote  our  hearts  away, 

To  be  for  ever  thine. 


OCTOBER  16.  J97 

How  long  shall  I  take  counsel  in  my  soul,  having  sor- 
row in  my  heart  daily.  Psal.  xiii.  2.  God's  an- 
swer. Be  careful  for  nothing ;  but  in  every  thing, 
by  prayer  and  supplication  with  thanksgivings  let 
your  requests  be  made  known  unto  God.  Phil.  iv.  6. 
Commit  thy  icay  unto  the  Lord ;  trust  also  in  him, 
and  he  shall  bring  it  to  pass.  Psal.  xxxvii.  5. 
Cast  thy  burden  upon  the  Lord-,  and  he  shall  sus- 
tain thee  :  He  shall  never  suffer  the  righteous  to 
be  moved.  Psal.  Iv.  22.  For  he  has  done  wonder- 
ful things;  his  counsels  of  old  are  faithfulness 
and  truth.  Isa.  xxv.  1,9. 

This  one  word,  "  Be  careful  for  nothing,"  is  a 
wall  against  a  thousand  troubles.  But  if  we  give 
room  to  any  care  and  unbelief,  it  is  like  a  leaven 
that  spreads  through  all  our  actions.  Therefore 
we  ought  never  to  despair  in  our  lawful  calling, 
but  rely  in  all  things  on  the  good  Providence  and 
faithfulness  of  God,  firmly  believing  that  he  will 
never  fail  to  carry  us  through  the  most  difficult  and 
intricate  circumstances,  though  there  should  be 
ever  so  little  appearance  for  it  in  our  own  eyes. 
He  that  can  dash  all  worlds  to  death, 

And  make  them  when  he  please, 
He  speaks,  and  that  Almighty  breath 

Fulfils  his  great  decrees. 
His  very  word  or  grace,  is  strong 
As  that  which  built  the  skies ; 
The  voice  that  rolls  the  stars  along 

Speaks  all  the  promises. 
He  said,  "Let  the  wide  heaven  be  spread," 

And  heaven  was  stretch'd  abroad  ; 
'<  Abra'm,  I'll  be  thy  God,"  he  said, 
And  h«  was  Abra'm's  God. 


298  OCTOBER  17. 

All  our  days  are 'passed  away  in  thy  wrath :  we  append 
our  years  as  a  tale  that  is  told.  Psal.  xc.  9.  But 
they  counted  our  life  a  pastime-,  and  our  time  here 
a  market  for  gain :  for,  say  they,  we  must  be  get- 
ting  every  way,  though  it  be  by  evil  means.  All 
those  things  are  passed  aivay  like  a  shadoio,  and 
as  a  2>ost  that  I^steth  by,  and  as  a  ship  thatpas- 
seth  over  the  waves  of  the  ivater,  which,  when  it 
is  gone  by,  the  trace  there  f  cannot  be  found,  nei- 
ther the  pathway  of  the  keel  in  the  waves.  Wisd. 
XV.  12.   Chap.  V.  9,  11. 

The  whole  life  of  many  people  is  nothing  else  but 
sporting,  playing,  dancing,  and  running  for  temporal 
things,  as  in  a  fair.  God  strikes  and  visits  them  with 
poverty,  sickness,  and  national  judgments.    But  who 
knows  and  believes  the  power  of  his  anger  ?  Consid- 
er, O  man  !  the  dreadful  eternity,  and  make  haste 
to  repent,  that  nothing  worse  may  come  upon  thee. 
No  wonder  that  even  the  children  of  God  are  chas- 
tised and  deprived  of  their  comfort,  if  they  are  dis- 
tracted with  many  things.     May  the  Lord  keep  me 
always  closely  united  to  himself,  and  make  me  wise 
and  diligent  in  laying  up  something  for  eternity. 
Can  laughter  feed  the  immortal  mind  ? 
Were  spirits  of  celestial  kind 
Made  for  a  jest,  for  sport  and  play, 
To  wear  out  time  and  waste  the  day  ? 
Lord,  raise  our  hearts  and  passions  higher, 
Touch  our  vain  souls  with  sacred  fire  ; 
Then,  with  an  elevated  eye, 
We'll  pass  these  glitt'ring  trifles  by. 
We'll  look  on  all  the  toys  below, 
With  such  disdain  as  angels  do, 
And  wait  the  call  that  bids  us  rise 
To  promis'd  mansions  in  the  skies. 


OCTOBER  18.  299 

We  must,  through  much  tribulation-,  enter  into  the 
kingdom  of  God.  Acts,  xiv.  22.  Therefore,  let 
us  run,  with  patience  the  race  that  is  set  before 
us.  Heb.  xii.  1.  Ye  have  not  yet  resisted  unto 
blood,  striving  against  sin.  Ver.  4. 

How  is  it  possible  for  any  man  to  deny  the  striv- 
ings against  sin?  For,  1.  Here  we  are  plainly 
told,  2.  What  is  spoke  of  the  conflict  between  the 
flesh  and  the  spirit,  Gal.  v.  17.  is  the  very  same. 
3.  The  most  experienced  Christians  are  witnesses 
to  it.  4.  The  word  of  God  is  said  to  be  a  sword, 
our  prayers  are  wrestling,  and  our  faith  the  victo- 
ry. Thus  our  whole  race  consists  in  strivings  and 
conquests.  There  is  always  an  enemy  to  be  con- 
quered first,  before  we  can  make  a  considerable 
progress  in  something  that  is  good  ;  and  none  of  our 
enemies  are  very  easily  to  be  overcome,  but  some 
are  very  stubborn.  Therefore  courage  and  pa- 
tience are  required  ;  and  thus  we  may  be  sure  to 
have  the  victory  at  last. 

Subdue  thy  passions,  O  my  soul, 
Maintain  the  fight,  thy  work  pursue, 

Daily  thy  rising  sins  control, 
And  be  thy  victories  ever  new. 

The  land  of  triumph  lies  on  high, 
There  are  no  fields  of  battle  there ; 

Lord,  I  would  conquer  till  I  die, 
And  finish  all  the  glorious  war. 

Let  every  flying  hour  confess 
I  gain  thy  gospel  fresh  renown  : 

And  when  my  life  and  labours  cease 
May  I  possess  the  promis'd  crown. 


300  OCTOBER  19. 

We  are  justified  freely  by  his  grace,  through  the  re- 
demption that  is  in  Jesus  Christ :  whom  God  has 
set  forth  to  he  a  propitiation  through  faith  in  his 
bhod-,  to  declare  his  righteousness  for  the  remis- 
sion of  sins  that  are  past.     Rom.  iii.  24,  25, 
How  sweet  are  the  words,   "  By  grace,  without 
merits,  ye  are  saved  !"  O,  an  inexhaustible  fountain 
of  all  comfort  and  divine  strength  !    O,   how  little 
is  the  generality  of  vain  and  worldly  people,  who 
still  feed  upon  husks,  acquainted  with  these  words! 
How  little  are  they  relished  by  our  self-righteous, 
moral  Christians!     But  O  how  deliciously  does  a 
poor,  hungering  sinner,   fare  upon   them  !     There 
is  hardly  any  thing  less  known  and  understood  as 
to  the  power  and  experience,   than  the  mystery  of 
Christ's  suffering  and  dying  for  us,  and  justifica- 
tion by  faith  in  him,  though  it  is  the  only  paradise 
and  element  of  believers,  and  the  greatest  jewel  re- 
stored by  the  reformation.     Such  talking  and  re- 
presentations as  strike  the  imagination  are  not  suf- 
ficient ;  but  we  must  also  feel  the  mortal  wounds 
of  sin,  by  which  the  flesh  is  mortified,  and  be  actu- 
ally healed  by  the  stripes  of  Christ. 

God,  the  great  God  that  rules  the  skies. 

The  gracious  and  the  just. 
Makes  his  own  Son  a  sacrifice, 

And  here  lies  all  our  trust. 
Here  rest  my  faith,  and  ne'er  remove» 

Here  let  repentance  rise, 
While  I  behold  his  bleeding  love, 

His  dying  agonies. 
With  shame  and  sorrow  here  I  own, 

How  great  my  guilt  has  been  ; 
This  is  my  way  to  approach  the  throne. 
And  God  fbrfrive«  mv  sin. 


OCTOBER  20.  SOI 

We  know  that  if  our  earthly  house  of  this  tabernacle 
were  dissolved  we  have  a  building  of  God,  an  house 
not  made  with  hands,  eternal  in  the  heavens.  2  Cor. 
V.  1 .  For  I  know  that  my  Redeemer  liveth,  and  that 
he  shall  stand  at  the  latter  day  upon  the  earth ;  and 
though  after  my  skin  worms  destroy  this  body,  yet 
in  myfleth  shall  I  see  God,  &.c.  Job,  xix.  26,  26, 
27. 

The  world,  calls  him  a  wise  man,  who  knows 
how  to  make  ample  provision  and  to  lay  up  much 
for  his  household.  But  this  is  foolishness,  since  he 
does  not  know  whether  it  will  be  a  real  blessing  to 
his  posterity,  or  not.  He  is  wise  indeed,  that  lays 
up  treasures  in  heaven,  and  regulates  all  things, 
even  his  domestic  affairs,  in  such  a  manner,  as  to 
reap  the  benefit  of  them  hereafter. 

0  happy  soul  that  lives  on  high, 

While  men  lie  grovelling  here! 
His  hopes  are  fix'd  above  the  sky, 

And  faith  forbids  his  fear. 

He  cannot  let  his  Saviour  go 

To  hold  his  riches  fast ; 
Or  hunt  for  empty  joys  below. 

And  lose  his  heaven  at  last. 

His  pleasures  rise  from  things  unseen, 

Beyond  this  world  and  time  ; 
Where  neither  eyes  nor  ears  have  been, 

Nor  thoughts  of  mortals  climb. 

He  looks  to  heaven's  eternal  hills, 

To  meet  that  glorious  day. 
Dear  Lord,  how  slow  thy  chariot  wheel* ! 

How  long  is  thy  delay. 

2{i 


302  OCTOBER  21. 

Where  shall  I  find  rest  ?  Answer.  Thus  saitk 
the  Lord,  stand  ye  in  the  ways  and  see,  and 
ask  for  the  old  paths,  where  is  the  good  way, 
and  walk  therein,  and  you  shall  find  rest  for 
your  souls.  Jer.  \i.  16.  See  also,  Matt.  xi. 
28,  29. 

In  our  own  ways  there  is  nothing  but  trouble ; 
but  giving  ourselves  entirely  up,  to  be  guided  of 
God,  at  his  own  pleasure,  we  can  always  be  easy, 
since  we  know,  that  by  every  step,  he  brings  us 
nearer  to  heaven.  The  only  way  to  rest,  is  the  Avay 
of  repentance  and  faith,  in  which  we  look  always 
upon  ourselves  from  the  beginning  to  the  end,  not 
only  as  uttterly  lost  and  condemned,  but  also  as  per- 
fectly reconciled,  and  justified  malefactors  in  Christ. 
Thus  to  abide  in  him,  to  let  him  work  alone,  and 
be  truly  resigned  to  his  ways,  will  certainly  have 
the  desired  effect,  whilst  by  the  righteousness  and 
workings  of  our  hearts  we  can  never  attain  to  it, 
and  which  is  worse,  be  lulled  into  false  rest. 

Lord,  I  believe  a  rest  remains 

To  all  thy  people  known  ; 
A  rest,  where  pure  enjoyment  reigns. 

And  thou  art  loved  alone. 

A  rest,  where  all  our  soul's  desire 

Is  fix'd  on  things  above, 
Where  grief,  and  pain,  and  fear  expire, 

Cast  out  by  perfect  love. 

O  that  I  now  this  rest  may  know, 

Believe  and  enter  in  ! 
Now,  Saviour,  now  thy  power  bestow, 

And  let  me  cease  from  sin. 


OCTOBER  22.  303 

From  whence  can  a  man  satisfy  these  men  with 
bread.  Matt.  viii.  4.  Divine  Answer.  Take 
no  thought  for  your  life,  what  ye  shall  eat, 
or  what  ye  shall  drinJc  ;  nor  yet,  for  your  bo- 
dy what  ye  shall  put  on.  Yea,  take  no  thought 
for  to-morrow  (much  less  for  many  years.) 
Matt.  vi.  25,  34.  Casting  all  your  care  upon 
him:  for  he  cares  for  you.    1  Pet.  v.  7. 

The  Lord  never  wants  means  and  ways  to  help 
our  necessities,  though  we  do,  and  as  long  as  we 
take  the  care  upon  ourselves  and  trust  upon  things 
foreseen,  we  cannot  experience  the  paternal  care, 
and  providence  of  God,  and  are  without  the  least 
grain  of  faith.  For  relying  upon  God  for  bread,  is 
the  very  least  degree  of  faith,  or  as  Luther  observes, 
The  faith  of  little  children  :  and  if  we  cannot 
trust  him  with  our  bellies,  how  can  we  trust  him 
with  our  souls  and  her  spiritual  and  eternal  con- 
cerns ?  Faith  does  every  thing,  he  prays,  works, 
suffers,  justifies,  sanctifies,  and  makes  us  victorious> 
content,  and  free  from  anxious  cares. 

Commit  thou  all  thy  grief 

And  ways  unto  his  hands, 
To  his  sure  truth  and  tender  care 

Who  earth  and  heaven  commands. 

Still  heavy  is  thy  heart  ? 

Still  sink  thy  spirits  down  ? 
Cast  off  the  weight,  let  fear  depart? 

And  every  care  be  gone. 

No  profit  canst  thou  gain 

By  self-consuming  care*, 
To  him  commend  thy  cause,  his  ea? 

Attends  the  softest  prayer. 


304  OCTOBER  23. 

Blessed  are  all  they  that  put  their  trust  in  him.  PsaL 
ii.  12.  For,  whosoever  believeth  on  him  shall  not  he 
ashamed.  Rom.  x.  11.  Blessed  is  the  man  that 
walketh  not  in  the  counsel  of  the  ungodly s  nor 
stands  in  the  way  of  sinners,  nor  sits  in  the  seat 
of  the  scornful.  But  his  delight  is  in  the  law  of 
the  Lord,  and  in  his  law  doth  he  meditate  day  and 
night.  And  he  shall  be  like  a  tree  planted  by  the 
rivers  of  water  that  bring  forth  his  fruit  m  his  sea- 
son ;  his  leaf  also  shall  not  wither,  and  whatso- 
evA'  he  doth  shall  prosper.  Psal.  i.  1,  2. 

O  glorious  promise !  there  can  be  nothing  above 
the  fear  of  God  and  the  love  of  his  word.  Now, 
O  Lord,  since  thou  hast  worked  in  me  a  good  will 
and  a  delight  m  thy  word,  which  is  a  true  mark  of 
my  new  birth,  and  shows  that  I  am  no  more  under 
the  law,  grant  that  I  may  also  understand  and  do 
thy  will ;  and  that  the  old  man  may  be  mortified, 
and  the  new  strengthened  evermore.  1  desire  to 
have  this  love  of  thy  word  daily  increased  in  such  a 
manner,  as  never  to  be  satiated  with  it. 

Great  God,  mine  eyes  with  pleasure,  look 
On  the  dear  volume  of  thy  book  ; 
There  my  Redeemer's  face  I  see. 
And  read  his  name  who  died  for  me. 
Let  the  false  raptures  of  the  mind 
Be  lost  and  vanish'd  in  the  wind  : 
Here  I  can  fix  my  hope  secure, 
This  is  thy  word,  and  must  endure. 
God's  kindest  thouglits  are  here  express'd. 
Able  to  make  us  wise  and  bless'd ; 
The  doctrines  are  divinely  true, 
Fit  for  reproof  and  comfort  too. 


OCTOBER  24.  305 

tfihe  Son  should  make  you  free,  you  should  he 
free  indeed,  John,  viii.  36.  Ye  have  been  caU 
led  unto  liberty,  only  use  not  liberty  for  an 
occasion  to  the  fiesh»  Gal.  v.  13.  Rom.  vi. 
20—23, 

Such  as  use  an  unhounded  liberty,  to  do  what 
they  please,  are  the  greatest  slaves  of  their  own 
passions  ;  nay,  of  Satan  himself.  But  such  as  omit 
only  the  gross  and  outward  sins,  are  far  from  true 
repentance,  and  fall  into  self-righteousness.  The 
greatest  of  all  sins  is  the  original  sin,  which  is  al- 
ways before  the  eyes  of  true  converts,  and  becomes 
daily  more  abominable.  This  makes  them  groan 
and  pray  evermore  :  O  Lord,  pardon  mine  iniqui- 
ty, for  it  is  great ;  and  that  they  abide  in  Christ 
continually,  who  gives  true  liberty,  not  to  commit, 
but  to  overcome  sin. 

Shall  we  go  on  to  sin, 

Because  thy  grace  abounds  ; 

Or  crucify  the  Lord  again. 
And  open  all  his  wounds  1 

Forbid  it,  mighty  God  ! 

Nor  let  it  e'er  be  said, 
That  we,  whose  sins  are  crucified. 

Should  raise  them  from  the  dead. 

We  shall  be  slaves  no  more, 
Since  Christ  has  made  us  free, 

Has  nail'd  our  tyrants  to  his  cross, 
And  bought  our  liberty. 

26* 


306  OCTOBER  25. 

Whither  shall  I  go  from  thy  spirit '7  Or  whi- 
ther shall  I  flee  from  thy  presence  ?  PsaL 
cxxxix.  7.  Answer.  To  Christ,  who  is  my 
never-failing  refuge  and  rest. 

For  though  my  sins  and  the  law  are  always  ac- 
cusing me,  yet  when  I  plead  guilty,  not  only  in 
what  I  am  accused  of,  but  in  all  other  things,  and 
look  upon  myself  as  justified  and  perfect  in  Christ, 
I  find  true  rest.  But  suffering  a  little  self-right- 
eousness, or  some  earthly  desires  to  steal  into  my 
heart  again,  my  peace  is  presently  disturbed.  O 
Lord,  let  my  desires  be  only  after  thee,  and  grant 
that  I  may  always  find  rest. 

Jesus,  the  spring  of  all  my  joys, 

The  life  of  my  delights, 
The  glory  of  my  brightest  days, 

And  comfort  of  my  nights. 

In  darkest  shades  if  he  appear, 

My  dawning  is  begun. 
He  is  my  soul's  sweet  morning  star, 

And  he  my  rising  sun. 

The  opening  heavens  around  me  shine 

With  beams  of  sacred  bliss, 
While  Jesus  shows  his  heart  is  mine, 

And  whispers  /  am  his. 

My  soul  would  leave  this  heavy  clay 

At  that  transporting  word. 
Run  up  with  joy  the  shining  way 

To  embrace  my  dearest  Lord. 


OCTOBER  2Ci.  307 

Draw  me,  vje  will  run  after  thee.  Solomon's 
Song,  i.  4.  Divine  answer.  /  loved  thee  with 
an  everlasting  love;  therefore  with  loving 
kindness  have  I  drawn  thee.  Jer.  xxxi.  3. 

Christ  having  promised  to  draw  us  all  after  him, 
John,  xii.  32.  He  actually  loves  and  draws  us 
continually.  If  you  do  not  feel  it,  it  is  your  own 
fault.  Therefore,  you  must  pray  always  to  him  to 
make  you  sensible  of  the  secret,  tender  drawings 
of  his  love,  and  willing  to  follow  them  directly. 
This  praying  always  is  very  needful,  because  we 
are  always  miserable;  and  without  being  instant 
and  earnest,  we  cannot  receive  much.  Therefore, 
it  is  not  a  hard  command,  but  a  great  benefit  and 
privilege  ;  as  if  God  should  say,  you  are  a  poor 
child,  always  wanting  something,  but  you  may  al- 
ways pray  to  me,  and  I  will  always  hear,  and  as- 
sist, and  draw  thee  after  me. 

O  draw  me.  Saviour  after  thee, 

So  shall  I  run  and  never  tire  : 
With  gracious  words  still  comfort  me, 

Be  theu  my  hope,  my  sole  desire  : 
Free  me  from  every  weight ;  nor  fear, 
Nor  sin,  can  come  if  thou  art  here. 

O  that  I,  as  a  little  child, 

May  follow  thee,  nor  ever  rest 
Till  sweetly  thou  hast  pour'd  thy  mild 

And  lowly  mind  into  my  breast  : 
Nor  ever  may  we  parted  be 
Till  I  become  one  soul  with  thee. 


508  OCTOBER  27. 

Finally-,  my  hretheren  be  strong  in  the  Lord,  and  m 
the  power  of  his  might.  Eph.  vi.  10.  Be  thou  my 
strong  habitation-,  whereunto  I  may  continually^ 
resort.  Thou  hast  given  commandment  to  save 
me,  for  thou  art  my  rock  and  my  fortress.  PsaU. 
Ixxi.  2.  See  also,  Psal.  xxxi.  1,  6.  For  thou  hasp 
been  a  strengthfor  the  poor-,  a  strength  to  theneedy 
in  his  distress,  a  refuge  from  the  storm.  Isa.  xxv,. 
4.  Divine  answer.  There  shall  be  a  tabernacle 
for  the  shadow  in  the  day  time  from  the  heat,  and 
for  a  place  of  refuge-,  and  for  a  covert  from  storm 
and  from  rain.  Isa.  iv.  6.  See  also,  Zech.  ii.  5. 

This  is  to  be  understood  of  the  wounds  of 
Christ ;  therefore  he  says,  "  abide  in  me,"  which  is 
done,  when  we  have  always  such  a  penitent  feeling 
of  our  sins,  that  thereby  our  hearts  are  evermore 
broken,  humbled,  and  made  desirous  and  able  of 
being  thoroughly  healed  by  his  stripes.  Without 
this,  the  knowledge  of  Christ  antl  his  wounds,  is  to 
no  purpose  :  dead,  and  like  the  water  poured  upon 
a  hard  stone. 

Where  shall  I  hide  this  guilty  head  ? 

Can  rocks  or  mountains  save  ? 
Or  shall  I  wrap  me  in  the  shade 

Of  midnight  and  the  grave? 

Is  there  no  shelter  from  the  eye 

Of  a  revenging  God  ? 
Jesus,  to  thy  dear  wounds  I  fly, 

Bedew  me  with  thy  blood. 

Those  guardian  drops  my  soul  secure, 

And  wash  away  my  sin ; 
Eternal  justice  frowns  no  more, 

And  conscience  smiles  within. 


OCTOBER  28.  309 

Ahraharriy  against  hope^  helieved  in  hope,  Rom. 
iv.  21. 

O  my  soul!  thou  having  not,  like  Abraham,  only 
one  single  but  many  thousand  promises  and  pat- 
terns of  faithful  believers  before  thee,  it  is  fit  that 
thou  shouldst  strongly  rely  on  the  word  in  faith. 
And  though  the  Lord  delayeth  his  help,  and  the 
evil  seemeth  to  grow  worse  and  worse,  be  not  weak, 
but  rather  strong,  and  rejoice  ;  since  the  most  glo- 
rious promises  of  God  are  generally  fulfilled  in  such 
a  wondrous  manner,  that  he  steps  forth  to  save  us 
at  a  time  when  there  is  the  least  appearance  of  it, 
nay,  the  contrary  of  it  For  in  the  greatest  extremi- 
ties, God  is  nearest  with  his  help.  And  this  meth- 
od he  chooses,  that  we  may  not  trust  upon  any 
thing  that  we  see  or  feel,  as  we  are  always  apt  to 
do,  but  only  upon  his  bare  word,  which  we  can  and 
must  only  depend  upon  in  the  hour  of  death. 

How  large  the  promise  !  how  divine  ! 

To  Ab'ram  and  his  seed  ; 
I'll  be  a  God  to  thee  and  thine, 

Supplying  all  their  need. 

The  words  of  this  extensive  love 

From  age  to  age  endure, 
The  angel  of  the  covenant  proves 

And  seals  tl>e  blessing  sure. 

Our  God!  how  faithful  are  his  ways  ! 

His  love  endures  the  same, 
Nor  from  the  promise  of  his  grace 

Blots  out  the  sinner's  name. 


310  OCTOBER  29, 

Immediately  I  confer  rednot  with  flesh  and  hlood., 
Gal.  i.  16.  For,  the  king^ s  commandment  was 
urgent,  much  more  the  commandment  of  the 
King  of  kings.  Dan.  iii.  22.  Therefore,  he 
not  slothful  in  business.  Rom.  xii.  11. 

The  speediest  and  easiest  method  to  accomplish 
our  desire  of  overcoming  the  evil,  and  doing  the 
good,  is  an  immediate  cotnpliance  with  our  first 
convictions,  without  conferring  with  flesh  and 
blood.  If  we  delay  the  work,  we  give  room  to 
other  people  without,  and  to  Satan,  and  to  our 
sinful  hearts  from  within,  to  persuade  us  to  the 
contrary,  by  which  the  flesh  can  easily  renew  its 
strength,  and  the  spirit  will  be  weakened.  And 
what  will  be  the  consequence  of  this,  but  that  ei- 
ther we  miscarry  in  our  design,  or  that  the  conflict 
will  be  afterwards  so  much  sharper,  and  the  good 
work,  if  not  stifled,  dropt  entirely;  yet  it  will  not 
be  done  so  completely,  and  with  such  singleness  of 
heart,  as  should  be.'  But  if  we  always  narrowly 
watch  our  hearts,  and  are  faithfully  engaged,  di- 
rectly, even  with  the  least  opposition,  then  our 
enemies  will  not  be  so  strong,  and  we  shall  hay^, 
po  reason  to  despair. 

Jesus,  mighty  to  renew^ 
Work  in  me  to  will  and  do, 
Turn  my  nature's  rapid  tide, 
Stem  the  torrent  of  my  pride. 

Take  away  my  darling  sin, 
Make  me  willing  to  be  clean  ; 
Make  me  willing  to  receive 
\yhat  thy  goodness  waits  to  giye-i. 


OCTOBER  30.  311 

Neither  yield  ye  your  members  as  instruments  of 
unrighteousness  unto  sin;  but  yield  yourselves 
unto  God,  as  those  that  are  alive  from  the  dead  ; 
und  your  members  as  instruments  of  righteous- 
ness unto  God.  Rom.  vi.  13. 

If  God  has  my  members  as  weapons  and  instru- 
ments in  his  hands,  I  shall  certainly  be  able  not 
only  to  work,  but  also  to  conquer,  since  he  under- 
stands full  well  how  to  manage  them.  May  the 
Lord  only  give  me  grace  not  to  wind  myself  out  of 
his  hands,  else  I  must  needs  be  like  a  dead,  useless 
carcass.  For  how  can  a  pen  write  alone  without 
being  in  the  hand  of  the  writer  ?  It  is  true  indeed, 
that  it  is  very  hard,  nay,  impossible  to  be  really 
good,  and  do  all  that  is  good,  if  we  undertake  it 
alone  ;  but  God  himself  living  and  working  in  us, 
and  we  truly  delighting  in  him,  it  is  very  easy  and 
pleasant.  Therefore  care  is  only  to  be  taken,  that 
our  hearts  may  be  always  the  working  place,  and 
our  members  the  instruments  of  God,  in  which  and 
through  which  he  can  perform  every  thing  himself. 

Now  God  I  serve,  to  him  alone 

My  thankful  homage  pay  ; 
My  only  Master,  Christ,  I  own. 

And  him  will  I  obey. 
To  him  my  members  I  present, 

Which  he  will  not  refuse, 
The  meanest,  basest  instrument, 

His  glory  deigns  to  use. 
Servant  of  sin  too  long  I  was, 

But  Christ  has  set  me  free! 
Glory  to  his  victorious  grace 

Which  freely  ransomed  me. 


312  OCTOBER  81. 

Ask  and  it  shall  he  given  unto  you  Sic.  for  eve^ 
ry  one  that  asketh  receivethj  &tc.  Luke,  i. 
9,  10. 

It  is  not  said,  he  shall  receive,  but  he  receives 
directly-  consequently  praying  and  receiving  is  the 
same  thing  ;  every  groan  is  an  effectual  grasp  into 
the  tender  heart  and  treasury  of  our  loving  Father 
in  heaven.  Why  should  we  then  be  slothful  and 
not  rather  pray  without  ceasing  ?  For  though  we 
should  be  obliged  to  tarry,  and  are  only  instant  in 
prayer,  we  have  no  reason  to  think  that  we  have 
received  nothing  ;  since  even  this  being  instant  is  a 
new  ffift  and  a  hearing  of  our  prayer  ;  for  without 
an  addition  of  grace  and  strength,  we  would  cer- 
tainly not  be  so  instant. 

Rise  my  soul,  with  ardour  rise, 
Breathe  thy  wishes  to  the  skies  ; 
Freely  pour  out  all  thy  mind, 
Seek,  and  thou  art  sure  to  find ; 
Ready  art  thou  to  receive  ; 
Readier  is  thy  God  to  give. 

Heavenly  Father,  Lord  of  all, 
Hear,  and  show  thou  hearest  my  call ; 
Let  my  cries  thy  throne  assail, 
Entering  now  within  the  veil ; 
Give  the  benefits  I  claim 
Lord  I  ask  in  Jesus'  name. 


NOVEMBER  1.  315 

At  the  heginning  of  thy  supplications  the  command- 
ment came  forth.  Dan.  IX.  23.  Continuing  in- 
stant in  prayer.     Rom.  xii.  12. 

As  soon  as  we  begin  to  pray  earnestly,  the  Lord 
hears  and  signs  our  petitions  to  help  and  bless  us ; 
for  every  supplication  is  the  pronouncing  and  seal- 
ing of  a  blessing.  It  is  true  we  do  not  always  ob- 
serve it  immediately  ;  but  in  due  time,  we  shall 
certainly  receive  even  a  visible  help.  Therefore 
let  us  only  go  on,  and  put  as  it  were,  one  weight  of 
prayers  after  another  upon  the  scales  of  the  sanctu- 
ary ;  surely  our  greatest  distress  will  at  last  be  over- 
balanced, and  salvation  brought  down,  if  not  by  the 
first,  yet  perhaps  by  the  second,  or  the  rest  of  our 
prayers.  But  it  is  well  to  be  observed  that  we  must 
also  be  watchful,  and  not  act  contrary  to  the  intent 
of  our  prayers,  which  might  provoke  the  Lord  to 
disannul  the  signing  of  his^a^  (grant)  again,  or  at 
least  to  delay  his  help.  But  when  he  tarries  long, 
it  is  not  his  intention  to  give  us  a  denial,  but  rather 
make  us  more  desirous  and  earnest  that  he  may  be- 
stow so  much  more  upon  us  afterwards  ;  for  this  de- 
lay he  will  certainly  well  recompense,  and  grant  us 
abundantly  above  all  that  we  could  ask  or  think. 

Lord,  I  will  not  let  thee  go, 
Till  the  blessing  thou  bestow, 
Hear  my  advocate  divine  ; 
Lo !  to  his  my  suit  I  join  : 
Joined  to  his  it  cannot  fail, 
Bless  me,  for  I  will  prevail ! 


27 


514  NOVEMBER  2. 

When  the  woman  saw  thatihe  tree  was  gootlforfoodi 
and  that  it  teas  pleasant  to  the  eyes,  and  a  tree  to 
he  desired  to  make  one  wise  ;  she  took  of  the  fruit 
thereof  and  did  eat,  and  gave  also  unto  her  hus- 
band with  her,  and  he  did  eat,  Gen.  iii.  6.  Every 
man  is  temjyted,  when  he  is  drawn  away  of  his  own 
lust,  and  enticed.     Then  when  lust  has  conceived, 
it  brings  forth  sin,  &c.  James,  i.  14,  16. 
Thus  one  sin  always  begets  another.     By  the 
«yes  it  rushes  into  the  heart,  from  the  heart  it  pro- 
ceeds into  the  mouth,  hands,  and  feet ;  from  us  it  is 
transferred  upon  others  ;  and  thus  we  go  on  sinninjj 
and  falling  deeper  and  deeper.     Therefore  we  must 
set  a  strict  guard  over  our  eyes  and  ears,  be  very 
cautious  and  resist  the  least  beginnings  of  sin,  not 
making  light  of  any  ;  for  the  least  spark  of  worldly 
lust  being  entertained  and  cherished,  we  eat  of  the 
forbidden  tree  standing  every  where  before  us,  and 
thereby  a  great  fire   may  be  kindled.     But  having 
always  our  eyes  fixed  in  all  our  conversation  upon 
the  presence  of  God  in  Christ,  so  as  to  walk  contin* 
ually  in  the  light,  and  directly  to  quell  the  least  in- 
ward motion  of  evil,  they  will  never  break  forth  into 
gross  outward  sins,  but  we  shall  daily  grow  in  grace. 
May  the  I^ord  enable  me  to  practise  this  good  les- 
son, and  watch  himself  continually  over  my  heart, 
eyes,  lips,  and  all  other  senses  and  thoughts. 
With  my  whole  heart  I  seek  thy  face, 

O  let  me  never  stray 
From  thy  commands,  O  God  of  grace, 

Nor  tread  the  sinner's  way. 
Thy  word  I  hide  within  my  heart, 

To  keep  my  conscience  clean, 
And  be  an  everlasting  guard 
From  every  rising  sin. 


NOVEMBER  3.  315 

The  preaching  of  the  cross  is  to  ms,  which  are 
saved,  the  power  of  God^  1  Cor.  i.  18. 

O  that  I  might  always  feed  upon,  and  experience 
its  power  till  I  have  obtained  a  complete  victory. 
Whosoever  was  bit  by  the  fiery  serpent,  and  looked 
upon  the  brazen  serpent,  lived.  Numbers,  xxi.  9., 
Thus  always  to  look  upon  Christ  crucified,  is  the 
one  thing  needful,  fi-om  which  all  other  blessings 
flow.  John,  iii.  14,  15.  O  Lord,  grant  that  the 
eyes  of  my  faith  may  be  immoveably  fixed  on  me, 
and  on  thee,  upon  the  cross,  so  as  to  be  entirely 
healed  at  last ;  for  as  long  as  I  live  I  feel  the  biting 
of  the  old  serpent,  therefore  must  I  also  look  upor\ 
thee  continually. 

So  did  the  Hebrew  prophet  raise 

The  brazen  serpent  high  ; 
The  wounded  felt  immediate  ease,. 

The  camp  forbore  to  die. 

Look  upward  in  the  dying  hour 

And  live,  the  prophet  cries  ; 
But  Christ  performs  a  nobler  cure 

When  faith  lifts  up  her  eyes. 

High  on  the  cross  the  Saviour  hung* 
High  on  the  heavens  he  reigns: 

Here  sinners,  by  the  old  serpent  stung>. 
Look,  and  forget  their  pains. 

When  God's  own  Son  is  lifted  up, 

A  dying  world  revives ; 
The  Jew  beholds  the  glorious  hope*. 

The  expiring  Gentile  lives. 


316  NOVEMBER  4. 

The   law  is  not  made  for  a  righteous  man,  to 
condemn  him.   1  Tim.  i.  9. 

For  he  being  dead  to  the  law,  by  the  death  of 
Christ,  and  living  to  God  in  eternal  righteousness, 
innocence,  life,  and  happiness  ;  the  law  c;in  condemn 
him  no  more  tiian  a  dead  man,  or  one  that  llveth 
in  heaven  already,  nay,  Christ  himself;  for  it  con- 
demns only  the  sin,  but  he  is  in  Christ  without  sin, 
since  he  has  him  who  has  taken  away  the  sins  of 
the  whole  world,  and  consequently  his  sins  also. 
But  the  sin  being  abolished,  the  wrath  and  curse  of 
the  law  is  also  removed,  and  grace  and  blessing  re- 
stored in  its  place.  Christ  has  taken  all  sins  upon 
himself,  and  imparted  his  own  perfect  obedience  to 
the  law  to  him  ;  therefi)re,  in  Christ,  he  has  fully 
satisfied  all  the  demands  of  the  law,  and  can  be 
entirely  free  from  its  dreadful  denunciations  in  his 
conscience  ;  the  blood  of  Christ  cleansing  us  from 
all  sins,  and  consequently  from  an  evil  conscience. 
Heb.  ix.  9,  14.  Chap.  x.  22.  Being  sprinkled  and 
covered  with  his  blood  and  golden  robes  of  grace, 
the  Lord  is  perfectly  pleased,  and  does  not  find  fault 
with  us  any  more.  It  makes  intercession  for  us 
with  God,  crying  continually,  as  Luther  observes, 
Abba,  abba,  mercy  mercy ,  peace,  peace,  and  obtains 
grace,  pardon,  life  and  salvation. 

Blood  has  a  voice  to  pierce  the  skies, 
Revenge,  the  blood  of  Abel  cries  : 
But  the  dear  stream  when  Christ  was  slain 
Speaks  peace  as  loud  from  every  vein. 

Pardon  and  peace  from  God  on  high, 
Behold  he  lays  his  vengeance  by  ; 
And  rebels  that  deserve  his  sword 
Kecome  t.li«  fav'ritcs  of  the  Lord. 


NOVEMBER  5.  317 

The  man  will  not  he  in  rest,  until  he  has  finished 
the  thing  this  day.     Ruth,  iij.  18. 

This  we  may  say  with  more  reason  and  propriety 
of  Christ,  the  Author  and  Finisher  of  faith.  O  my 
soul,  keep  close  to  him,  he  will  surely  finish  his 
work  in  thy  heart.  But  be  thou  not  at  rest  neither, 
but  abiding,  through  faith,  in  Christ  ;  follow  holi- 
ness constantly,  and  press  toward  the  mark  ever-, 
more,  crying  always,  "  The  very  God  of  peace 
sanctify  us  wholly,"  &c.  1  TAe^y.'v.  23,  24.  That 
thou  mayest  also  finish  thy  day's  work  here  in  this 
present  life,  and  receive  thy  full  lot  and  inheritance 
hereafter.  Now,  O  Lord,  grant  that  by  thy  own 
planting  and  care  I  may  have  plenty  of  fruits  and  be 
thoroughly  prepared  for  mine  inheritance.  John, 
XV.  16.  Let  me  cease  from  working  in  my  own 
strength,  and  keep  me  always  from  running  impru- 
dently into  unnecessary  sufferings  ;  but  whatever 
measure  of  work  and  sufferings  thou  hast  thought 
proper  to  ordain  for  me,  grant  that  I  may  cheerfully 
take  it  upon  me,  and  never  rest  until  it  is  finished. 

Then  let  my  soul  march  boldly  on. 
Press  forward  to  the  heavenly  gate, 

There  peace  and  joy  eternal  reign, 

And  glittering  robes  for  conquerors  wait. 

Oh  !  like  the  sun,  may  I  fulfil, 
The  appointed  duties  of  my  life. 

With  ready  mind  and  active  will  **:■ 

March  on  and  finish  all  my  strife. 

There  shall  I  wear  a  starry  crown. 
And  triumph  in  Almighty  grace. 

While  all  the  armies  of  the  skies 
Join  in  my  glorious  Leader's  praise. 
27* 


318  NOVEMBER  6. 

Let  your  conversation  he  without  covetousness,  and  he 
content  with  such  things  as  ye  have.  Heb.  xiii.  5. 
For  they  that  will  be  rich  fall  into  temptation,  and 
a  snare,  and  info  many  foolish  and  hurtful  lusts 
which  drown  men  in  perdition  and  destruction  ;  for 
the  love  of  money  is  the  root  of  all  evil,  &.c.  1  Tim. 
vi.  i>,  10. 

A  covetous  man  is  called  an  idolator,  and  has  no 
part  in  the  kingdom  of  God  ;  hut  who.  believes  that 
he  is  covetous  ?  Now  here  you  see  that  every  one 
is  actually  covetous,  who  is  not  content  with  what 
he  has.  And  what  says  the  apostle  of  such  as  will 
be  rich  ?  They  fall.  Not  only,  it  was  possible  for 
them  to  fall  :  no,  they  actually  fall.  O  reader  ! 
be  frightened,  destroy  the  covetous  desires  of  thy 
heart,  and  keep  it  disentangled  from  temporal 
things  ;  for  who  knows  how  soon  you  must  go  out 
of  this  world  and  leave  every  thing  behind '^  Away 
fiom  it  with  thy  heart,  else  death  will  be  very  hard. 
The  Christian's  motto  is,  God  A^'D  Enough  ;  for 
he  that  has  God,  is  content,  and  consequently  al- 
ways rich  enough,  even  in  poverty.  And  that  must 
be  a  covetous  man  indeed,  who  has  not  enough, 
having  God.  O  Lord,  make  me  so  free  by  faith 
from  the  love  of  earthly  things,  that  I  may  equally 
praise  thee,  whether  thou  be  pleased  to  give  me 
something  or  take  it  away  from  me  ;  and  that  I 
may  never  covetously  refuse  that  to  others  or  to 
myself,  what  thou  hast  given  and  should  be  be- 
stowed upon  us. 

The  rich  young  man  whom  Jesus  loved> 

Should  warn  us  to  forbear  : 
His  love  of  earthly  treasure*,  proreel 

A  fataK  fl^oldeti  tnare, 


NOVEMBER  7.  319 

The  soul  of  the  diligent  shall  be  made  fat,  Prov. 
xiii.   4. 

You  are  conoerned  for  having  no  more  grace. 
What  is  the  reason  ?  Because  you  are  indolent, 
careless,  and  unfaithful.  And  though  you  have  no 
warrant  even  for  an  hour  to  live,  yet  unreasonably 
you  suppose  to  have  time  enough,  therefore  you  are 
not  serious,  diligent,  and  fervent  every  hour  in  pray- 
ing for  sufficient  strength,  to  be  always  prepared 
and  have  bohhiess  in  death.  No  wonder,  if  you  do 
not  immediately  resist  sin,  that  it  grows  strong,  and 
you  are  always  weak  atul  discouraged.  And  how 
can  you  expect  to  receive  more  grace,  if  you  do  not 
faithfully  improve  what  little  yf»u  have^  If  you 
would  but  diligently  and  faithfully  apply  yourself 
to  the  word  and  prayer,  God  would  certainly  not 
be  wanting  on  his  part  to  fulfil  his  promises  and 
give  you  enough  ;  but  not  otherwise.  For  it  is 
well  to  be  observed,  and  we  must  know  it  once  for 
all,  that  there  is  no  such  a  thing  as  making  any 
progress  in  grace  and  carrying  our  point,  unless  we 
are  hourly  mindful  of  ourselves,  watching  and 
praying  against  all  sins,  and  whatever  may  be  a 
hindrance  on  one  hand  ;  and  following  with  all  dili- 
gence that  which  is  good,  and  what  may  be  a  fur- 
therance on  the  other.  It  is  not  enough  to  use- 
some,  but  we  must  use  all  diligence,  and  according- 
as  our  sfrace  is  increased,  our  diligence  must  in'* 
crease  also ;  since  it  goes  against  the  stream. 

Right  to  resist  the  sinful  power, 

Requires  a  strong  restraint ; 
We  must  be  watchful  every  hour, 

And  pray,  but  never  faint. 


320  NOVEMBER  8. 

In  loxdiness  of  mind  let  each  esteeem  others  better 
than  themselves.  Phil.  ii.  3.  Bear  you  one  ano- 
ther's burdens-,  and  so  fulfil  the  law  of  Christ. 
For  if  a  man  think  himself  to  be  something,  &c. 
But  let  every  man  prove  his  own  tvork,  and  then 
shall  he  have  rejoicing  in  himself  alone,  and  not 
in  another.  Gal.  vi.  2,  3,  4. 

If  we  were  truly  humble,  and  looked  upon  our- 
selves as  the  most  miserable  of  all,  we  would  wil- 
lingly submit  to  all  adversities,  and  patiently  bear 
the  burdens  and  infirmities  of  others,  considering, 
that  God  must  bear  with  us  a  great  deal  more. 
Observing  therefore,  the  fiiults  of  our  neighbour, 
we  must  Qot  forget  our  own.  Perhaps  in  other 
things  we  are  weaker  than  he.  This  must  restrain 
us  from  judging  rashly,  or  speaking  unadvisedly  to 
others  ;  but  first  w^e  should  speak  to  God  about  it, 
and  then  try  with  gentle  means  to  bring  him  to 
rights  again.  Nay,  the  best  method  is  to  consider 
our  neighbour  on  the  good,  and  ourselves  on  the 
bad  side,  and  see  whether  we  can  excuse  him,  and 
accuse  ourselves.  And  if  his  fault  could  not  be 
excused  in  any  manner,  we  must  not  ^uflfer  hirn  to 
stir  up  our  corruption,  but  come  in  with  prayer 
between  God  and  him,  to  plead  his  cause  before 
his  throne  in  heaity  love.  This  requires  more  than 
censorious  judging.  It  is  very  easy  to  find  fault 
with  others,  but  to  show  love  and  restore  them  by 
prayer  and  brotherly  correction,  is  quite  another 
thing. 

Blest  are  the  souls  who  stand  afar 
From  rage  and  passion,  noise  and  war  ; 
God  will  secure  their  happy  state, 
And  plead  their  cause  against  the  great. 


NOVEMBER  9.  .  321 


TAoM  openest  thy  hand,  and  satisfieth  the  desire 
of  every  living  thing,  Psal.  cxlv.  16. 

Who  considers  these  words  enough  ?  The  hand 
of  God  being  my  capital  cellar  and  store-house,  is 
it  not  a  shame  to  be  atixiously  careful  for  any  thing  ? 
Has  the  Lord  all  things  in  his  hand  ?  Then  surely 
I  shall  receive  what  he  has  for  me  ;  none  will  be 
able  to  withold  it.  Faith  has  always  a  free  access 
to  the  treasures  of  God,  who  is  never  wanting. 
"  Christians  as  (Luther  observes)  have  their  chests, 
cellar,  and  treasures  in  such  a  high  place,  even  in 
God,  that  no  thief  can  rob  them,  and  they  are  sure 
to  have  enough  in  God.  And  though  the  Lord 
should  try  them  with  want  a  little  while,  yet  he  re- 
lieves them  in  due  time,  their  bread  must  rain  from 
heaven,  rather  than  that  they  should  be  left  with- 
out. You  need  not,  says  Christ,  seek  these  other 
things,  straight  they  shall  be  brought  to  you,  if  you 
only  abide  in  me.  If  this  does  not  comfort  and 
strengthen  us,  nothing  else  will.  Now  many  reljr 
on  their  full  pockets  and  purses,  but  if  they  had  true 
faith  it  would  be  equally  the  same,  whether  they 
had  it  in  their  fists  and  trunks  already,  or  not ;  it 
would  be  enough,  that  they  believed,  and  had  it  in 
God's  hand,  purse,  and  chest.  It  is  all  one  to  be- 
lievers, full  purses  or  none.  If  the  Lord  is  pleased 
to  bestow  some  provision  upon  him,  he  blesses  him 
for  it,  and  is  careful  to  apply  it  well.  But  if  he 
thinks  proper  to  deny  it  him,  he  is  equally  content 
and  cheerful." 

The  Lord  is  good,  the  Lord  is  kind  ; 

Great  is  his  grace,  his  mercy  sure ; 
And  the  whole  race  of  man  shall  find 

Hh  truth  from  ag^e  to  age  endure. 


322  NOVEMBER  10. 

Every  man  has  his  proper  gift  of  God.   1  Cor. 
vii.  7. 

Therefore  what  God  withholds  from  us,  namely, 
sensible  joy,  or  other  particular  gifts,  to  do  some- 
thing extraordinary  for  his  glory,  cannot  be  extort- 
ed from  him  by  force.  Neither  does  he  require  it  of 
us,  since  it  is  his  own  gift,  which  he  freely  bestows 
upon  whom  and  when  he  pleases.  Be  ye  only  faith- 
ful in  what  you  have,  and  what  you  are  command- 
ed to  do.  Especially  avoid  sin  (which  above  all 
things  disturbs  our  peace)  and  keep  close  to  the 
word  of  God  and  to  prayer ;  for  this  is  thy  own, 
what  God  requires  of  thee.  And  if  you  do  your  part, 
God  will  do  his  part  also,  he  will  quicken  thee  and 
grant  thee  all,  when  it  is  most  needful,  and  you 
have  learned  how  to  use  it  right.  O  Lord,  suffer 
me  never  to  go  beyond  the  bounds  of  my  own  meas- 
ure, that  I  may  undertake  nothing  without  thy 
grace  and  call,  and  neglect  that  which  I  am  called 
to  Show  me  always  my  own  gift  and  proper  work 
which  1  am  ordered  to  perform.  Let  me  never  be 
drawn  away,  even  in  seemingly  good  things,  by  my 
own  will,  that  I  may  not  run  before  thee,  but  listen 
always  at  thy  command,  and  thus  be  ever  ready  at 
thy  service  according  to  thy  own  will.  Grant,  O 
Lord,  that  I  may  be  entirely  resigned  to  thy  good 
pleasure,  and  be  faithful  in  all  things,  as  it  becomes 
one,  that  is  thy  whole  sacrifice  and  property.  Amen., 

Behold  the  potter  and  the  clay. 
He  forms  the  vessel  as  he  please  ; 

Such  is  our  God,  and  such  are  we, 
The  subjects  of  his  high  decree3^ 


November  ii.  323 

He,  the  Lord,  will  beautify  the  meek  (poor)  tvith 
salvation,  Psal.  cxlix.  4.  And  if  ye  suffer  for 
righteouness*  sake,  happy  are  ye.  1  Pet.  iii. 
4.  Psal.  X.  17.  xxii.  26.  xxxvii.  11.  xlviii* 
10.  Isa.liv.  11. 

All  this  is  for  the  humble  and  poor  in  spirit. 
How  does  this  agree  ?  Poor,  and  yet  blessed  ?  O 
yes,  poor  in  ourselves,  but  blessed  and  glorious  irt 
Christ.  If  we  never  experience  his  glory,  the  rea- 
son is^  we  are  not  truly  sensible  of  our  misery; 
but  when  we  are  come  quite  low,  let  us  confidently 
lay  hold  on  Christ,  and  we  shall  be  blessed  ;  for  all 
is  ours.  We  may  say,  O  Lord,  if  thou  art  a  glori- 
ous help  to  the  needy,  lo  !  here  is  want  and  misery 
enough  ;  therefore  1  come  with  all  ray  want  and 
poverty  to  the  fulness  of  thy  grace  and  riches, 
with  my  darkness  to  thy  light,  with  my  death  to 
thy  life.  Grant  that  all  my  evils  may  be  swallow* 
ed  up  by  thy  goodness  and  glorious  deliverance, 
Mine  innumerable  wants  I  set  before  thee  as  so 
many  empty  vessels,  and  desire  to  have  them  filled 
with  thy  spiritual  and  heavenly  blessings. 

0  might  I  hear  thy  heavenly  tongue 
But  whisper,  '<  Thou  art  mine  I" 

Those  gentle  words  should  raise  my  song 
To  notes  almost  divine. 

How  would  my  leaping  heart  rejoice, 
And  think  my  heaven  secure  i 

1  trust  the  all-creating  voice, 

And  faith  desires  no  more. 


324  NOVEMBER   12. 

Be  renewed  in  the  spirit  of  your  mind.  Eph, 
iv.  23. 

O  Lord,  grant  that  I  may  daily  and  hourly  re- 
pent, have  evermore  a  tender  feeling  of  my  sins 
and  so  renew  my  baptismal  covenant,  that  by  the 
power  of  thy  death,  the  old  man  may  be  crucified, 
and  by  the  power  of  thy  resurrection  the  new  man 
may  rise  up  and  grow  more  and  more  every  morn- 
ing. Let  me  ever  be  in  true  earnest,  and  look  upon 
every  day  as  the  very  first  and  the  very  last,  that 
with  each  I  may,  as  it  were,  begin  anew  to  work 
out  my  salvation  with  fear  and  trembling,  and  so 
be  always  prepared  for  death  and  eternity.  Give 
me  grace  to  surmount  all  diflficulties,  and  to  avoid 
every  thing  which  may  prove  a  torment  of  con- 
science in  the  hour  of  death.  And  as  there  is  no 
standing  still,  I  humbly  beseech  thee  to  stir  me  up 
daily  and  hourly,  more  and  more,  that  I  may  make 
all  haste  and  save  my  soul. 

Lord,  I  am  vile,  conceived  in  sin, 
And  born  unholy  and  unclean  ; 
Sprung  fiom  the  man  whose  guilty  fall 
Corrupts  our  race  and  taints  us  all. 

Soon  as  we  draw  our  infant  breath 
The  seeds  of  sin  grow  up  for  death  : 
The  law  demands  a  perfect  heart ; 
But  we're  defiled  in  every  part. 

Great  God,  create  my  heart  anew, 
And  form  my  spirit  pure  and  true  ; 
O  make  me  wise  betimes  to  spy 
My  danger  and  my  remedy. 


NOVEMBER  13.  325 

He  has  dispersed,  he  has  given  to  the  poor ;  his 
righteousness  endures  for  ever.  Psal.  cxii.  9,  In 
the  morning  sow  thy  seed,  and  in  the  evening 
withhold  not  thine  hand.     Eccles.  xi.  6. 

Those  that  lay  up  treasures  on  earth  suffer  noth- 
ing to  He  long  useless,  but  lend  it  out  as  fast  as  they 
can  ;  and  such  as  desire  to  reap  soon  and  plentiful- 
ly, are  careful  to  sow  soon  and  plentifully.  There- 
fore lend  and  sow  ye  also  in  good  time,  for  there 
may  be  times  when  you  cannot  show  charity,  or  at 
least  not  so  largely.  Luther,  on  this  passage,  says, 
'*  We  must  not  pretend  to  pay  the  debt  of  charity 
with  some  poor  mites  and  pences.  If  you  will  give 
something,  give  bountifully  ;  take  your  hands  full 
as  if  you  were  sowing,  like  the  poor  widow  with 
her  two  mites,  which  she  sowed  out  freely,  though 
it  was  her  whole  substance.  But  the  rich  ones 
were  not  liberal,  but  covetously  offered  only  what 
they  could  spare  very  well.  It  is  not  said,  we  should 
sow,  and  consequently  take  hands  full  ;  for  God, 
loving  a  cheerful  giver,  will  in  his  turn,  dispense 
again  bountifully  with  you,  that  ye  shall  have  all 
sufficiency  in  all  things,  to  every  good  work.  (But 
God  dispensing  so  bountifully  with  you,  why 
should  you  then  grudge  him  any  thing,  or  make 
only  such  poor  returns  ?)  For  what  we  do  to  our 
neighbour,  is  the  same  as  if  it  were  done  to  God 
himself." 

Awake,  my  charity,  and  feed 

The  hungry  soul,  and  clothe  the  poor  ; 

In  heaven  are  found  no  sons  of  need, 
There  all  these  duties  are  no  more. 


326  NOVEMBER  14. 

He  shall  redeem  Israel  from  all  his  iniquities.  PsaL 
cxxx.  8.  Othe  hojye  of  Israel,  the  Saviour  thereof 
ill  time  of  trouble.  Jer.  xiv.  8.  In  lorath  remem- 
ber mercy     Habak.  iii.  2. 

Despair  not  O  my  soul,  in  any  tribulation  or  con- 
flict, as  if  it  were  impossible  to  overcome  it.  The 
all-hoaling  word  of  God,  contains  advice  and  com- 
fort for  all  cases.  The  Lord  being  thy  helper  in  all 
adversities,  and  able  to  turn  the  sharpest  afflictions 
into  the  greatest  blessings,  he  would  never  sn.ite, 
or  withhold  something  from  thee,  if  he  was  not 
willing  also  to  heal,  and  give  thee  something  bet- 
ter in  its  place.  O  Lord-  I  trust  that  thou  wilt 
carry  me  through  all  difficulties.  Tltough  my 
misery  and  weakness  were  ever  so  great,  yet  there 
is  nothing  too  great  for  thee,  it  is  all  one  to  thee, 
to  help  in  great  and  little  distresses ;  nay,  the 
more  I  am  surrounded  with  grief  and  weakness, 
the  more  wilt  thou  pity,  spare,  and  nourish  me,  as 
a  tender  mother  does  the  least  of  all  her  children, 
and  the  more  there  wiil  be  occasion  for  thee  to 
show  thy  miglity  salvation  ;  for  the  least  is  impos- 
sible to  me,  but  the  greatest  and  most  difficult 
things,  are  possible  and  very  easy  to  thee.  The 
sharper  and  longer  my  distress  and  conflicts  have 
been,  the  nearer,  greater,  and  sweeter,  1  trust,  will 
also  be  my  victory  and  salvation,  and  I  shall  not  be 
tempted  above  measure.  Yes,  the  Lord  will  as- 
sist me  to  conquer  all,  even  the  most  stubborn  en- 
emies. 

There's  full  redemption  at  his  throne, 

For  sinners  long  enslaved  ; 
The  great  Redeemer  is  his  Son, 

And  Israel  shall  be  saved. 


NOVEMBER  16.  327 

There  is  an  accursed  thing  in  the  midst  of  thee,  O  Is- 
rael; thou  canst  not  stand  before  thine  enemies, until 
you  take  arc  ay  the  accursed  thing  from  among  you. 
Josliua,  vii.  13.  See  also,  2  Pet.  i.  4.  Having  escap- 
ed the  corruption  that  is  in  the  woi'ld  through  lust. 

The  entertaining  of  every  worldly  lust,  and  in- 
clulgence  of  any  known,  wilful  sin,  is  such  an  ac- 
cursed thing,  by  which  we  are  deprived  of  the  pow- 
er of  God,  that  we  cannot  stand  before  our  ene- 
mies. Behold  therefore  the  severity  of  God,  {Joshua 
vii.  21,  26.)  and  be  more  earnest.  Make  all  haste 
to  flee  from  the  lust  of  the  world,  especially  from 
the  lust  of  the  eye,  which  is  the  love  of  money.  It 
being  impossible  to  receive  any  grace  and  strength 
until  the  accursed  thing  be  taken  away,  what 
more  needful  than  to  break  off  even  \he  most  subtle 
and  specious  bonds  of  unrighteousness.  Unless 
all  splinters  of  the  unjust  Mammon  be  taken  out, 
the  wound  cannot  be  healed  up.  Nay,  examine 
thyself  closely  in  other  things,  and  whatever  sin- 
ful lust  harlxnjrs  in  thy  breast,  be  faithful  to  put  it 
off  and  flee  from  it,  else  you  must  not  wonder  at 
your  being  so  weak  in  spirit.  He  that  does  not 
resist  the  sinful  motion  of  his  heart,  will  also  very 
easily  give  a  loose  to  his  hands  and  tongue.  But  he 
that  immediately  subdues  the  inward  corruption, 
will  certainly  be  preserved  from  their  breaking 
out  in  sinful  actions.  O  Lord,  deliver  me  from  all 
accursed  things,  and  keep  ray  heart  always  under 
thy  closest  inspection  and  discipline.     Amen. 

Why  should  ray  passions  mix  with  earth, 
And  thus  debase  my  heavenly  birth, 
Why  should  I  cleave  to  things  below, 
Ajad  let  my  God,  my  Saviour  go. 


328  NOVEMBER  16. 

It  is  done  as  thou  hast  commanded.  Luke  xiv.  22. 
Ihave finished  the  work  thou  gavest  me  to  do.  John 
xvii.  4 .  By  once  offering  he  has  perfected  for  ever 
them  that  are  sanctified.     Heb.  x.  14. 

We  must  do  to-day  all  that  is  possible.  The  day 
that  is  to  come  has  its  own  work  again,  and  is  very 
uncertain.  Especially  we  must  not  defer  it  one  hour, 
to  repent  and  get  a  true  interest  in  the  salvation  of 
Christ.  O  may  the  Lord  give  me  such  an  assurance, 
that  I  may  always  be  able,  even  in  the  hour  of 
death,  to  look  upon  myself  as  one  that  is  perfect 
by  his  offering. 

And  is  this  life  prolonged  to  me  ? 

Are  days  and  seasons  given  ? 
Shall  1  not  then  prepare  to  be 

A  fitter  heir  for  heaven  ? 

I'll  never  let  these  moments  pass, 
These  golden  hours  be  gone  : 

Lord,  I  accept  thy  offered  grace, 
I  bow  before  thy  throne. 

Now  cleanse  my  soul  from  every  sin 

By  my  Redeemer's  blood  ; 
Now  let  my  flesh  and  heart  begin 

The  honours  of  my  God. 

Let  me  no  more  my  soul  defile 

With  sin's  deceitful  toys  : 
Let  cheerful  hope,  increasing  still, 

Approach  to  heavenly  joys, 


NOVEMBER  17.  329 

Shall  there  be  an  evil  in  the  city,  and  the  Lord  has  not 
done  it  ?  Amos,  iii.  6.  And  in  very  deedfor  thi9 
cause,  have  I  raised  thee  (Pharaoh)  up.  Exod.  ix. 
16.  For  all  things  come  from  God.  Sirach,  xi.  14. 

A  "  Christian  has  a  great  deal  to  siiffi^r,  but  he  is  so 
feacless,  sure,  and  content,  as  if  he  were  possessor  of 
all  the  goods  in  the  world  ;  and  if  every  thing  should 
be  taken  from  him  he  comforts  himself  with  God, 
who  cannot  be  taken  frojn  him,  and  who  can  always 
make  as  much  again,  and  more,  ns  there  is  in  the 
whole  world.  Whether  he  be  rich  or  poor,  praised 
or  blamed,  is  all  the  same  to  him,  for  he  knows  that 
every  thing  comes  from  God.  Therefore  every  one 
in  his  greatest  distress  must  know,  that  it  is  the 
Loid  who  ordered  it,  when  death  and  devils  rise  up 
against  him,  for  thus  saitli  the  Lord  :  This  devil 
have  I  in  my  hand,  his  wicked  will  and  desires  are 
in  my  power,  to  control  them  as  I  please.  Thou 
art  my  poor  worm,  and  hast  kept  my  word  ;  but 
when  i  call  the  devil  to  tear  thee  to  pieces,  he  is 
swelled  with  pride  and  anger,  desiring  to  devour 
thee  all  at  once,  and  thou  art  discouraged  and 
frightened  ;  but  when  thou  risest  up  again  upon 
the  wings  of  thy  fijth,  God  is  above  death,  devils, 
sin,  and  hell,  that  all  these  enemies  cannot  even  hurt 
only  one  of  thy  hairs.  For  who  can  attack  and  de- 
stroy the  good  allies  of  God,  the  children  of  his 
covenant,  who  are  carried  in  his  womb  ;  nay,  the 
very  apple  of  his  eye.""  These,  are  Luther's  words. 

He  brought  the  Spirit's  powerful  sword 

To  slay  our  deadly  foes  : 
Our  sins  shall  die  beneath  his  word, 

And  hell  in  vain  oppose. 
28* 


330  NOVEMBER  18. 

Follow  me.  Luke,  v.  27.  And,  he  not  led  by  thy  ovm 
will.  Sirach,  xviii.  30.  And  endure  hardness  as  a 
good  soldier  of  Christ.  2  Tim.  ii.  3. 
He  that  breaks  his  own  will  in  every  thing,  and 
resolutely  resists  his  natural  reluctance  to  prayer, 
loves  humility,  and  every  good  work,  shows  more 
power  than  another  who  can  do  it  with  more  ease. 
With  this  faithfulness  the  Lord  is  so  well  pleased, 
that  he  rewards  it  at  last,  and  gives  us  grace  to  do 
it  also  with  a  willing  heart  ;  but  we  must  first  be 
made  truly  sensible  of  the  deep  corruption  of  our 
hearts,  that  then  we  may  use  the  more  violence  in 
prayer.  And  if  we  are  but  going  on  in  this  conflict, 
the  delays  of  God  are  soon  made  up  with  so  much 
greater  deliverance.  But  if  we  pray  only,  and  do 
not  quickly  resist  the  propensity  of  our  own  heart 
in  all  things,  there  will  never  be  such  a  thing  as 
making  any  progress  at  all,  since  the  stubborness 
of  our  flesh  recjuires  it,  that  prayer  and  conflict  must 
always  go  hand  in  hand.  Only  it  is  to  be  observed, 
that  all  this  must  be  done  in  faith.  Now,  O  Lord, 
grant  that  I  may  quickly  take  all  thy  hints.  Thou 
art  a  faithful  God,  indeed,  thou  callest,  vvarnest, 
and  movest  me  often  enough  ;  O  that  I  was  faith- 
ful also,  punctually  and  immediately  to  follow  thee 
in  all  things,  should  it  be  ever  so  much  against  the 
inclination  of  my  heart  at  first.  May  1  never, 
throuvih  unbelief,  unfaithfulness,  confusion,  self- 
will,  and  overdoings,  bring  any  affliction  upon  me, 
and  hurt  myself,  not  so  much  as  in  body,  much  less 
in  soul. 

My  dearest  Saviour  and  my  guide, 

I  would  be  walking  at  thy  side  ; 

O  never  let  me  run  astray, 

Nor  follow  the  forbidden  way. 


NOVEMBER  19.  331 

The  Lord  is  not  far  from  every  one  of  us;  for  in 
him  we  live,  move,  and  have  our  being.  Acts, 
xvii.  27,  28.  Even  the  very  hairs  of  our  heads 
are  all  numbered.  Luke,  xii.  7. 

O  the  close,  and  more  than  maternal  care !  Nothing 
is  so  mean,  but  it  is  under  the  providence  of  God, 
since  even  the  least  things  can  neither  hurt  nor  profit 
the  soul.  And  how  sweet  it  is  to  observe  his  foot- 
steps even  in  the  minutest  things,  and  to  be  satisfied 
that  we  may  trust  our  greater  and  lesser  concerns 
to  his  care  1  O  Lord,  grant  that  I  may  never  swerve 
from,  nor  do  any  thing  without  thee  ;  but  that  my 
going  in  and  going  out  may  be  always  done  in  thy 
presence,  as  if  I  had  to  do  with  none  but  thee  ;  nay, 
as  if  we  both  lived  alone  together  in  the  world.  O 
that  I  could  transact,  as  it  were,  all  my  aflfairs  with 
thee  alone,  and  in  ail  places  look  upon  thee  as  if  thou 
wast  only  a  God  for  me.  Let  me  always  carefully 
observe  all  the  inward  and  outward  testimonies  of 
thy  providence,  so  as  daily  and  hourly  to  have  a  true 
sense  of  thy  gracious  presence  in  every  thing  more 
or  less  important  ;  thereby  to  be  ever  strengthened 
in  faith,  and  kept  in  a  composed  state  of  mind,  con- 
sidering that  nothing  happens  by  mere  chance,  but 
every  thing  is  wisely  ordered  by  thy  providential  care 
to  our  good  :  firmly  believing,  if  any  thing  goes  con- 
trary to  expectation,  that  something  better  will  fol- 
low in  its  stead  if  we  can  only  be  quiet  and  wait  the 
time. 

God,  that  must  stoop  to  view  the  skies, 
And  bow  to  see  what  angels  do, 

Down  to  our  earth  he  casts  his  eyes, 
And  bends  his  footsteps  downward  too. 


532  NOVEMBER  20. 

Cleave  to'that  ivhich  is  good,  Rom.  xiii.  9.  Seek 
those  things  which  are  above.    Col.  iii.  1. 

The  manners  of  such  things  or  persons  as  we  fre- 
quently converse  with,  cleave  very  easily  to  us.  If 
we  con  verse  much  with  God  and  heavenly  things,  we 
shall  be  heavenly  minded  :  but  if  we  deal  much  with 
the  world  and  temporal  things,  we  must  be  sensual 
and  worldly-minded.  Up,  therefore,  with  thy  heart 
to  God.  Lift  it  hourly  up  to  him  ;  and  though  it 
sinks  down  often  to  the  earth  again,  yet  the  Lord 
has  patience,  and  will  as  often  receive  and  accept  of 
it  again.  Therefore  raise  it  up  continually  and  take 
great  care  to  keep  it  above,  that  it  may  not  sink  down 
and  be  defiled  and  cloyed  with  worldly  things  again. 
Thus  it  will  be  easy,  whilst  on  the  contrary  it  is  a 
hard  matter  to  abide  in  a  spiritual  frame,  like  a  fea- 
ther which  easily  rises  higher  and  higher  when  kept 
above  ground,  but  moves  very  heavy  upwards,  when 
once  fallen  into  the  dirt.  This  you  may  take  as  a 
lively  figure  of  an  easy  and  heavy  method  in  the  prac- 
tice of  religion.  Choose,  now,  which  you  please. 
O  !  that  I  may  always  choose  the  best ;  namely,  the 
work  and  sufferings  of  the  Lord,  and  never  plunge 
myself  into  needless  troubles  and  conflicts. 

Descend  from  heaven,  immortal  Dove, 
Stoop  down  and  take  us  on  thy  wings, 

And  mount  and  bear  us  far  above 
The  reach  of  these  inferior  things. 

Beyond,  beyond  this  lower  sky, 

Up  where  eternal  ages  roll, 
Where  solid  pleasures  never  die, 

And  fruits  immortal  feasts  the  soul. 


NOVEMBER  21.  333 

Lord,  now  lettest  thou  thy  servant  depart  in 
peace,  &lc.  Luke,  ii.  29,  30.  Say  to  them 
that  are  of  a  fearful  heart,  he  strong,  kc. 
Isa.  XXXV.  3,  4. 

Not  the  weak  faith  of  a  fearful,  trembling;,  and 
tempted  believer,  but  the  wilful  unbelief  only,  is 
damnable.  If  I  do  not  reject  the  ransom  of  Christ 
my  surety,  but  am  desirous  to  accept  of  it  by  faith, 
it  is  as  impossible  that  God  can  reject  me,  as  it  is  im- 
possible for  him  to  reject  my  surety,  and  his  own 
decree  and  eternal  counsel  of  love  :  which  can  ne- 
ver be.  O  Lord,  it  goes  beyond  the  reach  of  all 
reason!  how  shall  I  depart  in  faith  and  peace,  since 
I  am  the  weakest  of  all,  and  would  despair  a  thou- 
sand times  for  once;  but,  "as  thy  peace  is  said  to 
pass  all  understanding,"  Phil.  iv.  7.  it  will  never- 
theless be  sufficient  to  keep  even  the  most  fearful 
and  weakest  soul :  for  it  is  not  by  any  power  of  our 
own,  but  solely  by  thy  divine  power,  that  we  shall 
**  be  kept  through  faith  unto  salvation."  And  it  is 
equally  the  same  to  thee,  to  carry  the  weakest  or 
the  strongest  through  the  gates  of  death  :  for  since 
thou  art  always  the  same  wise,  gracious,  and  migh- 
ty God,  in  all  circumstances,  and  must  do  the  work 
alone,  for  both,  thou  wilt  then  surely  lend  me  also, 
thine  all-sufficient  aid  and  assistance. 

Saints  by  the  power  of  God  are  kept. 

Till  the  salvation  come  ; 
We  walk  by  faith,  as  strangers  here, 

Till  Christ  shall  call  us  home. 
Lord,  at  thy  temple  we  appear, 

As  happy  Simeon  came, 
And  hope  to  meet  our  Saviour  here  : 

O  make  our  joys  the  same ! 


334  NOVEMBER  22. 

0  Lord,  how  manifold  are  thy  works  !  in  wis- 
dom hast  thou  made  them  all ;  the  earth  is  full 
of  thy  riches.  Psal.  civ.  24.  Whoso  is  wise 
and  will  observe  these  things.  Psal.  cvii.  43. 

O  Lord,  how  many  are  thine  unknown  mercies  ! 

1  am  surrounded  with  thy  goods  on  all  sides,  and 
yet  I  observe  and  acknowledge  them  so  little !  If 
thou  hast  punished  even  the  heathen  for  not  having 
minded  and  glorified  thee  by  thy  works,  what  will 
become  of  me  ?  Pardon  O  Lord,  this  my  blindness 
and  ingratitude,  and  be  pleased  to  add  to  all  thy 
benefactions,  this  one  more,  that  I  may  always  be 
thankful  for  every  thing,  especially  for  the  unspeak- 
able  gift  of  thy  Son,  and  after  that  for  all  thy  works 
of  creation  and  providence  also.  Grant  that  in  all 
thy  creatures.  I  may  see  and  adore  thine  infinite 
power,  wisdom,  and  goodness,  thereby  continually 
to  be  strengthened  in  faith,  and  stirred  up  to  thy 
praise  and  love.  Thus  let  me  always  converse 
with,  cleave  to  thee,  and  have  uninterrupted  com- 
munion with  thee,  that  nothing  may  interfere  and 
disturb  this  religious  disposition  of  my  soul,  in  the 
least.  Yes,  O  Lord,  grant  me  this  wisdom  and 
close  attention,  for  thy  glory's  sake.     Amen. 

The  glories  of  my  Maker,  God, 

My  joyful  voice  shall  sing. 
And  call  the  nations  to  adore 

Their  Former  and  their  King. 

The  brightness  of  our  Maker's  name, 

The  wide  creation  fills ; 
And  his  unbounded  grandeur  flies 

Beyond  the  heavenly  hills. 


NOVEMBER  23.  335 

The  sword  of  the  Lord  and  Gideon,  Judges, 
vii.  20.  For  they  are  bread  for  us ;  their 
defence  is  departed  from  them,  and  the  Lord 
is  with  us ;  fear  them  not.  Numb.  xiv.  9. 
Bat  my  servant  Calebs  because  he  had  an- 
other spirit  with  him,  and  has  followed,  me 
fully,  him  will  I  bring  into  the  land,  ivhere- 
unto  he  went,  ver.  24.  Surely  the  wrath  of 
men  shall  praise  thee,  Psal.  Ixxvi.   10. 

Take  care,  O  my  soul,  tliat  there  may  also  be 
another,  namely,  a  kingly  spirit  with  thee,  as  there 
was  with  Joshua  and  Caleb  ;  not  to  b<;  discouraged 
on  account  of  my  weakness  and  great  numbers  of 
frailties  and  enemies,  as  if  it  was  impossible  to  live 
only,  and  get  the  victory.  Behold  Christ,  the  true 
and  great  Joshua  and  Caleb,  marches  out  before 
thee,  to  make  war  himself  against  thine  enemies, 
and  who  can  conquer  him  ?  he  is  unchangeable, 
his  spirit  now  is  as  mighty  as  ever,  and  his  sword 
as  powerful,  and  sharper  than  a  two-edged  sword. 
Against  thy  various  infirmities  he  offers  also  a  va- 
riety of  divine  strength,  and  against  eaah  of  thine 
enemies  he  holds  forth  to  thee  a  particular  sword  in 
his  word  ;  and  abiding  in  his  word  thou  shalt  sure- 
ly conquer.  Though  the  enemy  should  raise  thine 
inward  and  outward  calamities,  to  the  highest  de- 
gree, as  so  many  strong  wails,  yet  he  must  fall; 
one  single  word  will  strike  him  down. 

Not  all  that  tyrants  tliink  or  say. 

With  rage  and  lightning  in  their  eyes, 

Nor  hell  shall  fright  my  heart  away, 
Should  hell  with  all  its  legions  rise. 


336  NOVEMBER  24. 

ZrO,  /  am  with  you  always^  even  unto  the  end  of 
the  world.  Matt,  xxviii.  20.  /  will  he  with 
him  in  trouble,  Psal  xci.  15.  Therefore,  he 
not  dismayed  at  their  faces,  lest  I  confound 
thee  hefore  them,     Jer.  i.  17. 

O  my  soul,  tell  the  Lord  all  thy  complaint,  as  if 
he  was  visibly  present,  for  he  is  actually  present  in 
all  thy  troubles,  with  his  advice  and  help.  Faith 
does  not  see  God,  yet  he  keeps  and  speaks  to  him, 
as  if  he  saw  him,  and  by  his  trials  and  assistance 
grows  only  stronger  ;  consequently  we  have  no  rea- 
son to  fear  any  distress.  By  afflictions  God  will 
not  discourage  us  for  believing  ;  far  from  it,  he 
rather  encourages  us  to  lay  holl  on  his  word  by 
faith.  And  though  we  feel  more  sin  and  anguish 
of  conscience  in  times  of  distress,  it  ought  to  make 
us  more  humble  indeed,  but  at  the  same  time  to 
bring  us  closer  to  Christ,  who  blotteth  out  all  our 
transgressions,  and  exercises  and  strengthens  our 
faith.  Therefore  (^as  Luther  observes)  '*even  the 
sins  of  a  Christian  are  for  his  good,  and  if  he  had 
no  sin,  he  sJiould  not  be  so  well  off;  for  without  the 
feeling  of  the  sins  and  desperate  corruptions  of  the 
heart  in  my  conscience,  I  should  never  take  so  much 
of  the  |)ower  of  the  word  of  God."  Neither  would 
prayer  flow  so  well,  for  the  fire  being  removed  from 
under  a  skillet,  a  congealing  follows  presently. 

Cheerful  we  walk  the  desert  through. 
While  faith  inspires  a  heavenly  ray  ; 

The  lions  roar,  and  tempests  blow, 
And  rocks  and  dangers  fill  the  way. 


NOVEMBER  25.  337 

I  in  them,  and  thou  in  me.  John,  xvil.  23.  Christ 
liveth  in  me.  Gal.  ii.  20. 

Luther,  on  these  words,  says,  "  Christ  living  in 
me,  (who  is,  as  it  weie,  one  piece  with  me)  there 
must  by  him  be  grace,  righteousness,  eternal  Hfe, 
and  salvation  in  me  ;  and  law,  sin,  and  death  be 
abolished.  There  is  such  a  close  union  between 
Christ  and  a  believer,  as  if  there  were  but  one  per- 
son, and  never  can  be  separated  from  one  another. 
Faith,  cleaving  always  to  Christ,  can  boldly  say,  I 
am  Christ ;  not  personally,  but  his  righteousness, 
victory,  life,  and  all  that  he  has,  is  my  own  ;  and 
Christ  says  again,  I  am  this  poor  sinner,  for  having 
taken  his  sins  and  death  upon  me,  they  are  actually 
mine."  0  happy  change!  without  Christ  there  is 
not  a  moment's  peace,  but  being  in  him,  and  one 
body  with  him,  who  can  hurt  me  and  lay  any  thing 
to  my  charge.  O  Lord,  grant  that  I  may  always 
truly  live  in  thee  by  faith  as  in  my  element.  Thou 
being  the  Son  of  God,  hast  loved  and  given  thy- 
self for  me,  I  can  never,  never  be  given  over  to 
death  and  hell. 

Why  should  we  start,  and  fear  to  die  ? 

What  timorous  worms  we  mortals  are! 
Death  is  the  gate  of  endless  joy. 

And  yet  we  dread  to  enter  there. 

Jesus  can  make  a  dying  bed 

Feel  soft  as  downy  pillars  are, 
While  on  his  breast  1  lean  my  head, 

And  breatlie  my  life  out  sweetly  there. 


29 


338  NOVEMBER  26. 

I  ivill  heal  your  hackslidings.  Jer.  iii.  22.  It  is 
God  ivlio  worketh  in  you,  both  to  will  and  to 
do  of  his  good  pleasure.  Phil.  ii.  13. 

O  my  dear  Saviour,  I  would  fain  believe  in  thoe, 
be  faithful,  obedient,  and  work  always  that  which 
is  good.  And  since  this  is  also  thy  will,  1  trust  it 
shall  be  done  ;  for  if  thou  wilt,  and  I  will,  who  can 
hinder  it?  True;  sin,  flesh,  world,  and  devils  are 
against  it :  but  shall  these  enemies  be  stronger  than 
t^iou,  the  mighty  God  1  Shall  their  opposition  be 
able  to  quell  thy  work  in  me,  if  I  do  not  consent 
to  it?  That  can  never  be.  The  more  violence  they 
use  upon  me,  the  more  violence  will  1  use  upon 
thee  in  prayer;  and  the  more  I  pray,  the  inore  glo- 
rious will  thine  assistance  be  ;  the  more  they  hin- 
der, the  more  thou  wilt  further,  that  all  their  hin- 
drances shall  be  swallowed  up  by  thy  furtherances, 
as  the  serpents  of  the  sorcererr^in  Egypt  were  swal- 
lowed up  by  the  serpent  of  Moses.  The  enemy 
will  fall  by  his  own  sword,  and  the  greatest  distress 
and  opposition  will  turn  to  my  good,  and  to  the 
promoting  of  thy  work.  For  if  I  do  not  abide  in 
Christ,  praying  continually,  every  thing  can, hinder 
me,  but  abiding  in  him,  all  obstructions  not  only 
prove  effectual,  but  useful  and  prohiable. 

We  honour  our  exalted  King  ; 

How  sweet  are  his  commands  ! 
He  guards  our  souls  from  hell  and  sin, 

By  his  Almighty  hands. 

Fearless  of  hell  and  ghastly  death, 
■  We'll  break  through  every  foe  ; 
The  wings  of  love,  and  arms  of  faith 
Shall  bear  us  conquerors  through. 


NOVEMBER  27.  339 

I  am  like  a  green  fir  tree,  from  me  is  thy  fruit 
found.  Hos.  xiv.  8.  1  will  rebuke  the  de- 
vour er  for  your  sakesj  and  he  shall  not  de- 
stroy the  fruits  of  your  ground.  Mai.  iii.  11. 
See  also,  Isa.  xxvii.  2,  6. 

Is  it  not  a  disagreeable  thing  for  a  gardener  to  see 
the  finest  blossoms  and  fruits  destroyed  by  the  ca- 
terpillars ?  Doth  it  not  rejoice  him  to  see  all  the 
branches  bow  with  ripe  fruits !  O  my  heavenly 
gardener,  grant  that  I  may  not  displease  but  rejoice 
thy  heart  also.  Let  me  abide  in  Christ,  my  true 
vine,  and  always  bring  forth  good  fruit.  But  since 
every  fruit  has  its  enemies,  and  thou  hast  no  sooner 
worked  any  thing,  than  the  insects  of  sin  endeavour 
to  destroy  it ;  1  beseech  thee  to  make  me  fearful 
and  careful  in  every  good  work.  Rebuke  the  de- 
vourer  presently,  and  preserve  me  as  a  branch  of 
Christ,  night  and  day,  as  thou  hast  promised,  that 
my  fruits  may  endure  to  eternity.  Doth  a  diligent 
gardener  dress  and  cultivate  his  garden  as  well  as  he 
can,  why  should  not  thou  cultivate  my  heart  also  ? 
since  thou  art  honoured  by  my  fruits.  O,  yes,  I  trust 
the  crystal  stream  of  thy  throne  will  water  me,  that 
I  can  go  and  bring  forth  greater  plenty  of  fruits. 

Like  trees  of  myrrh  and  s[)ice  we  stand 
Planted  by  God  the  Father's  hand; 
And  all  his  springs  in  Zion  flow. 
To  make  the  young  plantation  grow. 

Let  my  beloved  come  and  taste 
His  pleasant  fruits  at  his  own  feast : 
I  come,  my  spouse,  I  come,  he  cries, 
With  love  and  pleasure  in  his  eyes. 


340  NOVEMBER  28. 

I  will  (do  it.)  Matt.  viii.  3.   And  what  is  that9 
Whatever  thou  desired.  For,  the  Lord  will 
fulfil  the  desire  of  them  that  fear  him,  Psal. 
cxlv.  19. 

Yea,  he  does  exceedincr  abundantly,  above  all 
that  we  ask  or  think,  granting  not  only  according 
to  the  notion  of  our  narrow  hearts,  but  according 
to  the  riches  of  his  glory,  as  becomes  his  majesty. 
Christ  delights  in  great  petitions,  for  he  is  a  great 
Lord,  and  is  rich  unto  all  that  call  upon  him.  He 
has  all  the  riches  of  his  merits  and  gifts  not  for  hirn- 
self,  (since  being  the  very  God,  he  wanted  nothing 
for  himself)  but  only  for  us,  even  the  rebellious, 
who  sincerely  call  upon  him.  Therefore  what  he 
has  as  mediator  i-<  not  his,  but  all  belongs  to  me,  if 
I  but  call  upon  him.  O  my  soul,  pray  to  him  ;  nay, 
be  much  in  prayer,  and  as  often  as  thou  pourest  out 
thy  soul  before  him  in  prayer,  let  nothing  resound 
in  thy  heart  but  these  words,  I  will ^  I  will  do  it. 
As  God  can  never  lie,  there  is  not  one  single  groan 
lost;  but  every  one  will  be  found  to  be  a  chaff,  yea, 
a  jewel  in  the  life  to  come,  by  which  thy  riches  are 
increased,  and  one  treasure  put  to  another.  O  how 
much  is  there  neglected  in  this  already!  Why 
should  you  not  be  earnest  and  instant  now  to  re- 
deem that  little  remaining  part  of  thy  time,  by 
prayer,  for  eternity,  to  lay  up  there  many  treasures, 
and  richly  adorn  thy  crown.  O  Lord,  grant  that 
this  may  be  done. 

Now  is  the  time  he  bends  his  ear, 

And  waits  for  your  request ; 
Come,  lest  he  rouse  his  wrath,  and  swear. 

Ye  shall  not  see  my  rest. 


NOVEMBER  29.  141 

Joshua  drew  not  his  hand  hack,  wherewith  he 
stretched  out  his  spear,  until  he  had  utterly 
destroyed  all  the  inhabitants  of  Ai.  Josh, 
viii.  26.  For  this  purpose  the  Son  of  God 
was  manifented^  that  he  might  destroy  the 
works  of  the  devil,  1  John,  iii.  8. 

The.  dominion  of  any  one  sin,  is  inconsistent 
with  the  grace  of  God  and  true  saving  faith.  Rom. 
vi.  14.  Therefore  all  these  wicked  inhabitants  of 
thy  heart  must  be  destroyed,  and  none  sutfered  to 
live  and  reign  in  thee  ;  since  even  by  one  single  sin 
we  may  be  utterly  undone  and  destroyed,  as  a  bird 
is  catched  in  one  single  snare.  And  though  you 
are  actually  converted,  and  have  gained  the  dominion 
over  your  sins,  yet  you  must  not  draw  back  your 
hand,  and  lay  the  spear  and  sword  of  the  spirit  aside. 
There  is  no  rest  or  cessation  of  arms  here.  Satan 
left  Christ  only  for  a  time  ;  much  more  will  he  re- 
new his  assaults  upon  us  again  and  again  ;  nay,  if 
a  man  is  not  watchful,  but  presumptuous,  he  takes 
to  himself,  seven  other  spirits  more  wicked  than 
himself.  But  if  one  conflict  lasteth  long,  remem- 
ber that  this  is  the  case  also  of  others  ;  and  even  the 
ancient  fathers  have  gone  under  it  until  they  were 
gray.  At  last  the  victory  will  be  the  more  sweet 
and  glorious.  Only  above  all  things  take  the  shield 
of  faith  ;  for  faith  alone  triumphs,  by  which  we 
are  in  covenant  with  Christ,  and  he  makes  one 
cause  with  us. 

'Tis  faith  that  conquers  earth  and  hell, 

By  a  celestial  power  ; 
This  is  the  grace  that  shall  prevail, 

In  the  decisive  hour, 
29* 


342  NOVEMBER  30. 

Come,  buy,  without  money  and  without  price, 
Isa.  Iv.  1.  Come,  for  all  things  are  now  rea- 
dy, Luke,  xiv.  17.  Him  (be  who  it  will,)  that 
comes  unto  me,  I  will  in  no  wise  cast  out* 
John,  vi.  37. 

How  could  a  tender  mother's  heart  cast  out  her 
sick  child,  calling  for  help  ?  Come,  my  poor  soul, 
come  only  as  well  as  thou  canst.  Better  to  Come 
in  thy  miserable,  unwilling  and  lazy  condition,  than 
not  at  all.  Do  not  imagine  that  it  will  be  disagree- 
able to  Christ,  if  you  must  put  a  constraint  upon 
yourself,  and  cannot  come,  and  pray  to  him  with  a 
sensible  joy,  and  strong  faith  ;  for  he  does  not  say, 
him  that  comes  with  a  sensible  strong  faith,  but, 
'*him  that  comes,"  without  any  limitation,  "  I  will 
in  no  wise  cast  out."  It  is  not  required,  to  bring 
any  money  of  our  own  worthiness  ;  but  only  the 
whole  heap  of  our  misery  along  with  us,  and  desire 
grace.  God  does  not  look  upon  the  sensible  pow- 
er ;  (for  this  is  his  particular  gift,  which  he  could 
soon  give,  if  need  was)  but  upon  the  sincerity,  ap- 
plication, and  earnestness  of  a  poor  sinner.  John 
Bunyan  very  fitly  compares  such  a  one,  to  a  man  who 
would  fain  ride  a  full  gallop,  whose  horse  is  hardly 
able  to  go  a  good  trot.  In  this  instance  the  inten- 
tion of  the  rider  is  not  to  be  judged  by  the  slow 
paces  of  his  horse,  (which  resembles  our  corrupt 
and  unwilling  nature)  but  by  his  whippings,  spur- 
rings,  and  beatings  of  the  beast. 

See,  dearest  Lord,  our  willing  souls 

Accept  thine  offered  grace  : 
We  bless  the  great  Redeemer's  love, 

And  give  the  Father  praise. 


DECEMBER  1.  343 

Be  not  overcome  of  evil,  but  overcome  evil  with  good. 
Kom.  xii.  2 1 .  For,  who  is  he  that  will  harm  you,  if 
ye  he  followers  of  that  which  is  good.  1  Pet.  iii.  13. 
There  is  none,  for  it  is  twice  said,  All  is  yours.   1 
Cor.  iii.  2 1 ,  22.     But  what  is  mine  must  be  service- 
able and  useful  to  me.    Rom.  viii.  1 8.     We  are  told 
that  all  things,  consequently  the   very  devils,  with 
their  whole  armour,  work  together  for  our  good,  to 
make  us  more  victorious  and  religious  ;  and  having 
so  many  assistants,  we  must  at  last  be  good  indeed. 
For  whatever  will  hurt  us  if  we  take  the  right 
course,  must  rather  serve  for  a  sword  of  defence  in 
the  hand  of  faith.     For  instance,  if  any  thing  con- 
trary happens  to  you,  do  not  look  upon  it,  but  di- 
rectly upon  God  himself,   as  if  you  had  to  do  with 
him  alone.     Therefore  take  it  patiently  from  his 
hands,  for  your  trial   and  humbling,  then  you  have 
a  blessing  directly.    If  you  meet  with  strong  tempta- 
tions by  the  great  corruptions  from  within  and  with- 
out, let  them  make  you  only  so  much  more  wise  and 
careful  as  to  think,  because  there  are  dangerous 
enemies,  I   must  watch  and   use  all  possible  vio- 
lence.   And  though  it  is  right  and  needlul  to  despair 
of  thy  own  sufficiency  and  strength  ;  yet,   if  you 
keep  and  only  press  so  much  closer  to  Christ  in 
prayer  and  faith,  like  a  child  to  its  mother,  when  it 
sees  a  devouring  beast  running  upon  it,  all  the  evil 
will  certainly  turn   to  your  good.      Luther  says, 
very  well,  "  Every  thing  of  a  sheep  of  Christ,  is  of 
some  use,  even  its  dung  (sin)  not  excepted." 
How  glorious,  Lord,  thy  wisdom  shines, 
AnAbaffles  Satan's  deep  designs, 
Thy  power  is  sovereign  to  fulfil 
The  noblest  counsels  of  thy  will. 


244  DECJeMBER  t. 

Prayer  shall  be  made  for  him  continually ^  and 
daily  shall  he  be  praised.     Psal.  Ixxii.  15. 

O  !  a  condescending  king,  who  can  always  be 
approciclied.  Who  would  not  pray  ?  You  say.  O  that 
rriy  coldness  and  indifference  would  perruit  me  to 
do  it !  But  are  you  not  sensible  of  your  wants  and 
miseries  ?  Is  not  this  coldness  and  backwardness 
misery  enough  ?  Therefore  you  ought  also  to 
pray,  and  pray  most  when  you  are  so  dull  and  drow- 
sy ;  else  it  will  never  bo  better  with  you.  Arise, 
therefore,  and  pray  ;  the  good  spirit  of  God  will  as- 
sist you  in  it.  "  Encouraged  by  the  promises  of  a 
prayer-hearing  God,  (says  Luther)  and  the  special 
assistance  of  the  Holy  Spirit  in  this  work,  we  must 
even  in  the  greatest  conflicts,  not  omit  to  resist  the 
temptations  of  the  devil.  And  though  we  have 
sinned,  not  defer  it  long ;  but  pray  directly,  and  say, 
the  Lord  is  merciful,  and  I  am  unworthy  and  una- 
ble to  pray  :  But,  alas  1  what  shall  1  do  ?  Shall  I 
wait  till  I  am  worthy  and  able  ?  O  no,  perhaps  this 
time  will  never  come  ;  for  I  am  always  a  great, 
miserable  sinner."  A  Christian  stands  always  in 
need  of  the  Lord's  prayer,  for  since  the  sense  and 
tenor  of  sin  does  not  leave  him,  he  can  never  leave 
off  prayers.  O  Lord,  grant  that  this  continual  fire 
may  never  be  extinguished  in  my  heart ! 

Arise,  my  soul,  from  deep  distress, 

And  banish  every  fear  ; 
God  calls  thee  to  his  throne  of  grace, 

To  spread  thy  sorrows  there. 


DECEMBER  3.  345 

It  is  required  in  stewards,  that  a  man  he  found  faith- 
ful. 1  Cor.  iv.  2.  You  are  not  your  own.  Chap* 
vi.  13. 

O  Lord,  I  beseech  thee,  either  to  give  me  nothing, 
in  case  I  should  not  be  faithful  :  or  whenever  thou 
art  pleased  to  bestow  something-  upon  me,  grant  me 
also  with  every  good  gift,  that  more  needful  and  ex- 
cellent gift  of  faithfulness.  Let  my  heart  always  be 
prepared  before  hand  for  a  fit  vessel,  that  I  may 
never  abuse  and  spoil  ray  goods,  but  always  with 
fear  and  humbleness  preserve  and  apply  them  thus, 
that  I  may  receive  niore  and  more.  Make  me  also 
faithful  in  my  ordinary  call,  that  I  may  be  duly 
mindful  of  all  my  duties,  and  have  them  at  heart  in 
such  a  manner,  as  never  to  omit  any  thing,  hut 
hasten  and  be  careful  to  have  finished  my  day's 
work  in  due  time.  But  that  I  may  not  be  hurried 
away  by  the  hasty  and  inordi-nate  motions  of  my 
own  spirit,  I  beseech  thee  to  use  me  just  as  a  man 
uses  his  own  hand,  according  to  thy  good  pleasure, 
nay,  work  every  thing  in  me  and  through  me?  as  it 
seems  proper  to  thee.  And  whenever  thou  hast 
done  something  for  me  and  by  me,  that  I  may  give 
all  the  glory  to  thee,  and  ascribe  nothing  to  me  but 
what  is  defective  and  sinful,  since  this  is  the  only 
thing  which  I  can  call  my  own.  Now,  O  Lord, 
grant  that  I  may  never  rob  thee  of  thy  honour,  but 
be  faithful  in  every  thing,  and  especially  in  humili- 
ty, since  the  worm  of  pride  spoils  the  most  excel- 
lent fruits. 

My  faithful  Saviour  and  my  God, 
Let  grace  my  sinful  heart  renew ; 

Wash  my  offences  in  thy  blood, 
And  make  me  true  and  faithful  too. 


346  DECEMBER  4. 

Mine  eyes  are  ever  towards  the  Lord ;  for  he  shall 
pluckmyfeetoutofthenet.  Psal.  xxv.  15.  Happy 
is  the  man  that f car eth  always.   Prov.  xxviii.  14. 

O  how  long  can  some  enemies  hide  themselves 
with  their  nets  before  our  eyes,  and  draw  ns  in  all 
on  a  sudden.  It  is  unspeakable  how  cunning  and 
powerful  our  enemies  are,  how  they  lay  in  wait 
every  where,  that  in  all  places  and  at  all  times  we 
are  surrounded,  as  it  were,  with  many  cruel  mur- 
derers of  souls.  Blessed  is  he  that  keeps  clear  from 
self-confidence,  but  rather  fearing  always,  says 
within  himself,  as  soon  as  he  awakes  in  the  morn- 
ing, Who  knows  what  tem[)tations  I  may  meet  with 
to-day  ?  perhaps  by  the  first  step,  when  I  rise,  my 
feet  may  be  entangled  into  dangerous  snares  and 
nets.  And  as  self-confidence  always  will  put  true 
confidence  in  thee,  O  Lord,  I  never  shall  be  asham- 
ed. Rom.  ix.  33.  'Grant,  I  beseech  thee,  that  dis- 
trusting myself,  I  may  fully  put  my  trust  in  thee, 
watching  evermore  in  all  tilings,  and  looking  cau- 
tiously in  all  places  about  me,  where  there  is  any 
fear  of  danger.  Wliatever  1  am  about  to  do  or  to 
speak,  let  me  first  look  upon,'  and  converse  with 
thee,  that  thus  keeping  always  close  to  thee,  I  may 
be  preserved  against  the  power  and  craft  of  mine 
enemies,  as  in  a  strong  hold  ;  and  confidently  say, 
according  to  thy  own  pattern  given  :  Psal.  xvi.  8.  "  I 
have  set  the  Lord  before  nie,  because  he  is  at  my 
right  hand,  I  shall  not  be  moved." 

'  God  is  my  portion  and  my  joy  ! 
His  counsels  are  my  light ; 
He  gives  me  sweet  advice  by  day, 
And  gentle  hints  by  night. 


DECEMBER  6.  347 

My  Father  works  hitherto,  and  Iworh,  (as  also  the 
holy  Spirit.)    John,  v.  17. 

O  my  poor  soul,  should  the  blessed  Trinity  not  be 
able  to  destroy  the  works  of  the  devil  and  fulfil  his 
good  will  in  thee  !  O,  yes,  he  works  both  to  will^  and 
to  do ;  and  that  very  thing  which  is  above  your  own 
power,  he  works,  and  nothing  else.  If  you  can  do 
little,  he  works  much  :  if  nothing  at  all,  so  much 
the  better,  then  he  works  all ;  for  he  is  our  All, 
since  we  are  nothing  and  can  do  nothing.  And  hap- 
py are  we  that  we  can  have  him  for  our  assistance 
in  all  things,  and  that  the  children  of  God  are  not 
required  to  direct  their  own  steps,  but  shall  be 
led  by  their  heavenly  Father.  Now  O  Lord,  since 
by  the  will,  guidings,  and  workings  of  my  own 
heart,  I  throw  only  so  many  hindrances  and  blocks 
in  my  way  ;  grant,  I  beseech  thee,  that  in  true  de- 
pendence on  thee,  I  may  venture  every  thing,  and 
despairing  of  my  own  sufficiency,  may  always  abide 
in  thee,  draw  all  necessary  strength  from  thee  by 
prayer,  and  bring  forth  many  good  fruits  which 
last  to  eternity.  For  the  power  in  me  being  an  eter- 
nal power  ;  thy  work,  weak  as  it  seems  now,  will 
also  last  eternally,  that  none  shall  be  able  to  destroy 
it. 

Thy  counsels.  Lord,  shall  guide  my  feet 

Through  this  dark  wilderness ; 
Thy  hand  conduct  me  near  thy  seat, 

To  dwell  before  thy  face. 

What  if  the  springs  of  life  were  broke, 
And  flesh  and  heart  should  faint  ? 

God  is  my  soul's  eternal  rock, 
The  strength  of  every  saint. 


348  DECEMBER  6. 

Draw  nigh  to  God,  and  he  will  draw  nigh  to  you. 
Resist  the  devil,  and  he  will Jlee from  you.  James, 
iv.  1.  8.  And  thus  the  effectual,  fervent  frayer  of 
a  righteous  man  availeth  much.   Chap.  v.  16. 

O  my  dear  soul,  draw  nigh  to  God  in  prayer, 
and  he  will  draw  nigh  to  thee  ;  be  instant  in  it, 
and  the  devil  cannot  stand  against  thee  ;  for  the 
incense  of  prayer  chases  all  devils,  as  smoke  the 
bees  ;  it  works  wonderful  great  things,  and  will 
make  possible  what  seemed  most  impossible.  God 
having  given  thee  many  things  by  thy  prayers  al- 
ready, this  is  a  great  encouragement  to  hope  also 
for  that  which  thou  lackest  yet.  Therefore  pray 
only  confidently,  and  you  shall  receive  evermore  ; 
for  unbelief  is  the  only  reason  that  God  cannot 
work  wonders  for  us. 

My  God,  I  bow  before  thy  feet, 
When  shall  my  soul  get  near  thy  seat? 
When  shall  I  see  thy  glorious  face, 
With  mingled  majesty  and  grace  ? 

How  should  I  love  thee  and  adore, 
With  hopes  and  joys  unknown  before  ! 
And  bid  this  trifling  world  be  gone, 
Nor  teaze  my  heart  so  near  thy  throne ! 

Creatures,  with  all  their  charms,  should  fly 
The  presence  of  a  God  so  nigh  : 
My  darling  sins  should  lose  their  name, 
And  grow  my  hatred  and  my  shame. 

My  soul  shall  pour  out  all  her  cares, 
In  flowing  words  or  flowing  tears  : 
Thy  smiles  would  ease  my  sharpest  paim 
Nor  shall  I  seek  my  God  in  vain. 


DECEMBER  7.  349 

There  is  none  good  but  one,  that  is  God.  Matt. 
xix.  17.  But,  every  imagination  of  the 
thoughts  of  our  hearts  is  only  evil  continual- 
ly. Gen.  vi.  5. 

A  christian,  feeling  continually  the  vile  corruption 
of  his  heart,  with  grief,  thinks  himself  to  be  the  least 
of  all  the  saints  ;  but  a  hypocrite  having  little  sense 
of  sin,  takes  himself  to  be  better  than  others.  There- 
fore we  cannot  be  said  to  have  truly  repented,  ex- 
cept we  have  an  experimental  knowledge  of  there 
being  no  good  in  us,  no,  not  so  much  as  one  drop 
of  blood.  Nay,  when  we  are  even  come  to  this 
and  are  converted,  we  must  not  presumptuously 
imagine  to  have  got  over  all  the  mountains.  After 
many  years  we  may  see  such  abominations,  which 
we  thought  little  of  in  the  beginning  :  consequent- 
ly we  have  always  reason  to  be  afraid  of  our  own 
hearts  and  to  depend  entirely  on  free  grace,  like  a 
poor  penitent,  condemned  malefactor,  else  the 
pharisee  will  soon  lift  up  his  head  again.  But  he 
that  is  really  convinced  to  be  such  a  miserable,  lost 
sinner,  as  has  no  good  in  him  by  nature,  pleading 
guiity  in  all  things,  and  seeking  every  thing  freely  in 
Christ,  is  actually  a  partaker  of  all  the  merits  of 
Christ,  and  can  look  upon  himself  as  entirely  justi- 
fied in  him.  Now,  Lord,  grant  that  I  may  patiently 
know  and  cleanse  myself  more  and  more  ;  and 
though  I  cannot  effect  it  by  my  own  power,  yet  my 
comfort  is,  that  thou  art  good  alone,  and  art  willing 
and  able  to  work  in  me  all  that  which  is  good. 
Nature  has  all  its  glories  lost 

When  brought  before  thy  throne  ! 
No  flesh  shall  in  thy  presence  boast 

But  in  the  Lord  alone. 
30 


350  DECEMBER  8. 

Take  this  child  away,  and  nurse  it  for  me,  and  I 
will  give  thee  thy  wages,  Exod.  ii.  9. 

As  Moses  was  ordered  to  be  saved  by  the  most 
cruel  eneinys  daughter  ;  so  Satan  himself,  even 
when  he  meditates  our  destruction,  must  be  a  means 
of  our  life.  See  also,  Matt.  xii.  48.  Who  is  my 
mother  ?  &LC.  Isa.  viii.  10.  Chap.  ix.  6.  O  Lord  Je- 
sus, thou  being  also  a  child  born  unto  me,  and  I 
willing  to  receive  thee  as  my'  Emmanuel,  I  shall 
certainly  have  good  wages,  nay,  even  thou  wilt  be 
my  shield  and  exceeding  great  reward,  and  defend 
me  powerfully  against  all  mine  enemies.  O  my  dear 
Saviour,  since  thou  art  mine,  all  is  mine,  even  thy 
Father,  thy  Spirit,  and  thy  heavenly  glory  ;  all  ac- 
cidents, all  enemies  must  work  for  my  good,  and 
be  instruments  and  ministers  of  my  salvation.  O 
that  I  may  never  fear  any  thing,  but  thinking  di- 
rectly, it  is  mine,  may  only  make  good  use  of  every 
thing.  Thus  even  the  very  worst  would  turn  to  my 
greatest  blessing  ;  and  without  it  perhaps  I  should 
want  such  a  needful  thing,  as  if  a  mill  or  a  ship  was 
destitute  of  wind  and  water. 

My  soul  surveys  thy  happiness, 
If  thou  art  l'our)d  a  child  of  grace  ; 
How  richly  is  the  gospel  stored  ! 
What  joy  the  promises  afford  ! 
All  things  are  new,  the  gift  of  God, 
And  purchas'd  with  our  Saviour's  blood  ; 
While  the  good  Spirit,  shows  us  how 
To  use,  and  to  enjoy  them  too. 
If  peace  and  plenty  crown  my  days, 
They  help  me   Lord  to  speak  thy  praise  ; 
If  biead  of  sorrow  be  my  food, 
These  sorrows  work  my  real  good. 


DECEMBER  9.  351 

SpeaJcing  unto  yourselves  in  psalms  and  hymns. 
Eph.  V.  19.  Teaching  and  admonishing  one  an- 
other in  psalms  and  hymns.  Col.  iii.  16.  For, 
God  recommended  every  one  his  neighbour.  Si- 
rach,  xvii.  15. 

If  we  are  obliged  to  promote  the  temporal  good 
of  our  neighbour,  how  much  more  the  spiritual,  by 
edifying  discourses  But  how  is  it  ?  The  children  of 
God,  when  somebody  visits  them,  (says  a  certain 
divine,)  are  sometimes  troubled  and  know  not  what 
discourse  to  enter  upon;  at  last  they  begin,  if  not 
entirely  vain,  yet  perhaps  unprofitable  discourses, 
or  at  least  they  suffer  others  to  do  it,  and  are  silent 
to  it.  I  will  tell  you  what  I  have  done  in  such  cases  : 
I  first  prayed  to  God,  saying,  O  good  God,  there  I 
received  a  guest,  and  having  nothing  to  set  before 
and  treat  him  with,  I  pray  thee  to  give  me  the 
right  bread  for  him,  which  the  Lord  was  pleased  to 
hear  in  such  a  gracious  manner,  that  I  could  soon 
enter  into  an  edifying  discourse.  And  thus  we 
keep  our  conscience  clean,  though  perhaps  the  lips 
were  frozen  up.  Some  foolish  philosophers,  to  the 
great  offence  of  others,  mock  at  divine  things,  and 
even  at  prayers,  as  if  natural  reason  and  will  vt^as 
not  corrupted,  and  highly  wanted  to  be  prayed 
for.  But  what  St.  Paul  says,  Rom.  i.  22.  is  fulfilled 
in  them.  What  will  become  of  these  poor  scofiers 
upon  their  dying  bed,  and  at  the  day  of  judgment! 
O  that  they  would  take  warning  while  it  is  time ! 

Now  if  some  proper  hour  appear, 

Let  none  be  overawed  ; 
But  let  the  scoffing  sinners  hear, 

That  we  can  speak  to  God. 


352  DECEMBER  10. 

Tell  his  disciples  and  Peter,  (who  was  deeply  fallen 
especially)  Mark,  xvi.  7.  If  any  man  sin,  we  have 
an  advocate  with  the  Father,  Jesus  Christ  the 
righteous ;  for  the  whole  world,  1  John,  ii.  1,  2. 
Wherefore  lift  up  the  hands  that  hang  down,  and 
the  feeble  knees.  Heb.  xi.   12. 

Hast  thou  been  slack,  unfaithful,  and  fallen  away, 
O  poor  soul,  ihou  art  not  to  make  light  of  it.  But 
why  wilt  thou  continue  in  thy  fallen  condition  any 
longer,  and  complain  ?  Get  thee  up,  and  ask  par- 
don of  Christ ;  he  is  ready  to  forgive  and  receive 
thee  again,  like  Peter,  having  received  gifts  for  the 
rebellious.  Delay  not  to  lay  hold  of  thy  ransom, 
which  is  greater  than  all  the  sins  of  the  world,  con- 
sidering that  it  is  paid  even  for  this  very  sin,  whose 
remission  is  purchased  by  it  already,  and  applied 
to  thee  in  baptism.  Therefore  be  not  discouraged, 
much  less  suffer  the  temptation  of  drawing  back 
to  the  world  to  prevail  upon  you.  The  Lord  even 
now  reaches  forth  his  hands  to  thee  anew  by  this 
very  word  ;  come,  lift  thyself  up  at  it,  and  be  care- 
ful for  the  time  to  come,  to  be  so  much  more  cau- 
tious, humble,  and  gentle  towards  others,  for  a 
Christian's  feet  will  slide,  but  only  into  humility. 

Salvation  !  O  the  joyful  sound  ; 

'Tis  pleasure  to  my  ears  ; 
A  sovereign  balm  for  every  wound, 

A  cordial  for  my  fears. 

Buried  in  sorrow  and  in  sin, 

At  hell's  dark  door  I  lay  ; 
But  I  arise  by  grace  divine, 

To  see  a  heavenly  day. 


DECEMBER  11.  363 

Behold  we  come  unto  thee.  Jer.  iii.  22.  (and)  Iwill 
come  unto  you.  John,  xiv.  18.  A  lively  representa- 
tion ofthis  happy  meeting",  see  Luke,  xix.  4,  5^  6., 
Zaccheus  ran;  and  Christ  said  unto  him,  Make 
haste  and  come  down,  for  to-day  I  must  abide  at 
thy  house. 

O  my  dear  Saviour,  since  I  come  to  thee  and 
thou  to  me,  we  shall  certainly  meet  one  another. 
Who  vi^ill  oppose  and  obstruct  it  ?    Devil  and  sin  ? 

0  no !  This  wall  of  separation  is  pulled  down. 
*•  Christ  says,  (as  Luther  observes,)  come  unto  me, 

1  am  not  an  angry  judije,  but  a  loving  mediator  be- 
tween God  and  thy  frightened  conscience :  keep 
to  me  and  fear  not  wrath.  Therefore,  I  sit  here, 
that  believing  in  me  to  make  intercession  for  thee 
with  God,  no  wrath  or  disgrace  can  befall  thee. 
Should  wrath  and  punishment  come  upon  thee,  it 
must  first  come  upon  me  ;  which  is  quite  impossible, 
since  he  is  the  dear  Son  of  God,  in  whom  dwells  all 
the  fulness  of  grace  ;  and  the  Father  looking  upon 
him,  his  wrath  must  vanish  away,  and  every  thing 
in  heaven  and  earth  be  changed  into  smiles  of  love 
and  grace."  Eph.  i.  6.  Dangers  and  conflicts  being 
hot,  God  hastens  with  his  assistance.  At  other  times 
he  tarries,  and  the  work  of  our  whole  renovation 
goes  on  little  by  little,  that  improving  in  the  exer- 
cise of  patience  and  faith,  we  may  also  bear  with 
others,  and  learn  not  only  to  quicken  our  diligence, 
but  also  to  wait  for  him. 

In  thine  own  ways,  O  God  of  love, 

We  wait  the  visits  of  thy  grace  ;  ♦ 

Our  soul's  desire  is  to  thy  name, 
And  the  remembrance  of  thv  face. 
30* 


354  DECEMBER  12. 

Since  I  come  to  Pharoak  to  speak  in  thy  name,  he 
hath  done  evil  to  this  jteople,  neither  hast  thou  de- 
livered thy  people  at  all.  Exod.  v.  23. 

At  the  very  time  when  God  is  about  to  deliver 
us  from  the  power  of  a  particular  sin  or  weakness, 
he  suffers  it  most  to  be  stirred  up  and  felt,  that  we 
imagine,  perhaps,  to  have  never  been  so  wicked  and 
oppressed  before.  But  thus  out  of  darkness  he 
brings  forth  light ;  of  unbelief,  faith  ;  of  pride,  hu- 
mility, &.C.  "  For  God  (as  Luther  observes,)  makes 
none  a  great  saint,  except  he  has  first  made  him  a 
great  sinner."  Sin  must  first  appear  so  great  and  sin- 
ful, that  we  heartily  plead  guilty  of  damnation. 
Rom.  vii.  13.  Humbly  begging  pardon  and  renounc- 
ing dll  self-righteousness  and  strength  ;  and  that  we 
not  only  receive  Christ  for  our  only  righteousness, 
but  also  abide  in  him,  continually  drawing  all  ne- 
cessary strength  from  him  for  san<;tlfication.  This 
is  the  only  method  of  bruising  the  head  of  sin.  Thus 
I  build  not  the  comfort  of  pardon  upon  my  victory, 
but  the  victory  upon  my  pardon.  I  strive,  not 
thinking,  that  I  shall  have  only  remission  of  sin, 
when  I  conquer  it,  but  1  seek  first  remission,  and 
believe  that  it  is  forgiven.  Being  assured  of  this,  I 
strive  in  faith  against  sins  forgiven  already,  as  one 
who  is  not  only  accepted  with  God  through  Christ, 
but  even  in  league  and  covenant  with  him  against 
all  our  enemies.  And  by  these  means  I  have  peace, 
courage,  strength,  and  victory. 

O  may  thy  pardoning  grade  be  nigh, 
Lest  we  should  faint,  despair  and  die ! 
Thus  shall  our  better  thoughts  approv« 
The  methods  of  thy  wondrous  love. 


DECEMBER  13.  355 

Return  ye  hacksUding  children^  and  I  will  heal 
your  hackslidings,  Jer  iii.  22.  See  also  Luke, 
XV.  20.    When  he  was  yet  a  great  way  off* 

Hear  ye  therefore,  the  voice  of  thy  loving  Father 
and  Shepherd,  O  thou  backsliding  chikl,  and  lost 
sheep,  crying  earnestly.  Return-,  return.  Do  not  run 
on  in  the  broad  way  with  the  world  any  longer. 
Are  you  not  tired  yet  of  the  husks  of  the  world? 
Do  you  feel  no  troubles  in  the  soul?  Shall  not 
these  drive  thee  to  God  ?  Lo  !  thy  Father  and 
Shepherd  seeks  ihee.  He  is  gone  forth  to  call  and 
meet  thee  already.  He  will  receive  thee  willingly 
and  joyfully.  Come  only  weeping  and  praying  as 
the  prodigal  Son,  he  will  freely  forgive  thee  all, 
though  thou  hadst  sinned  ever  so  much.  He  is  also 
able  to  heal  and  correct  the  most  desperate  cor- 
ruptions of  thy  heart.  He  can  deliver  thee  from 
the  very  jaws  of  hell  and  the  devil.  Nay,  if  thou  even 
wast  possessed  with  more  than  seven  devils,  he 
can  still  cast  them  out.  Begin  only  to  call  upon 
him  earnestly  in  prayer,  and  poor  and  wretched  as 
thou  art,  come  to  him  as  the  physician  of  thy  soul  ; 
for  the  physician  and  the  sick,  the  rich  and  the 
poor,  are  the  best  match  for  one  another.  He  heal- 
eth  ALL  our  diseases,  and  can  make  possible  what 
seems  most  impossible  to  thee. 

Come  all  ye  vilest  sinners,  come, 

He'll  form  your  souls  anew  ; 
His  gospel  and  his  heart  has  room 

For  rebels  such  as  you. 


356  DECEMBER  14. 

Watch  ye  therefore  and  pray  ahvays.  Luke,  xxi, 
36.  Let  us  lay  aside  every  weight,  and  the  sin 
which  doth  so  easily  beset  us.  Heb.  xii.  1. 

The  hearts  of  men  are  not  like  clocks,  which  only 
want  to  be  wound  up  once  a  day  ;  D  no  1  the  dul- 
ness  and  distraction  is  too  great,  which  so  easily  be- 
sets us.  We  must  Hft  them  up  many  times  a-day, 
yea,  watch  continually  to  lay  aside  every  weight. 
Our  going  out  and  coming  in,  nay,  all  things,  even 
the  very  least,  we  must  do  with  prayer,  always 
strictly  examining  what  is  the  will  of  the  Lord  ;  else, 
if  they  are  done  after  our  own  will,  they  do  not  tend 
to  the  glory  of  God,  and  cannot  be  attended  with 
his  blessing.  But  if  we  earnestly  strive  against  our 
own  will  in  prayer,  willingly  suffering  every  hour 
what  the  Lord  thinks  proper  to  lay  upon  us,  and 
will  be  ruled  by  his  hints,  and  slight  strokes  of  his 
rod,  many  heavy  afflictions,  scourges,  and  whips 
can  be  avoided ;  for  the  burdens  which  we  bring 
upon  ourselves  by  our  own  will  and  impatience,  are 
always  the  heaviest.  A  Christian  has  daily  his 
proper  burden  and  affliction,  like  the  clock  its 
weights,  by  which  the  flesh  is  kept  under,  that  the 
spirit  can  raise  up.  Therefore,  when  any  thing 
comes  cross,  he  looks  upon  it,  as  its  weights  for.the 
day,  to  stir  him  up  to  the  exercise  of  prayer  and 
meditation  of  the  word  of  God.  (>  Lord,  grant  that 
I  may  always  bear  thy  easy  yoke,  and  be  never  the 
cause  of  my  distress  and  dulness.  <fl 


Wait  on  the  Lord,  ye  trembling  saints, 
And  keep  your  courage  up  ; 

He'll  raise  your  spirit  when  it  faints, 
And  far  exceed  your  hope. 


I 


DECEMBER  15.  357 

Give  anaccount  of  thy  stewardship.  Luke  xvi.  2. 

O  Lord,  how  have  I  wasted  my  time,  goods,  and 
faculties !  O  pardon  me  for  thine  infinite  mercy's 
sake,  blot  out  my  debt  by  thy  blood,  and  grant  that 
keeping  henceforth  daily  and  hourly  a  good  account, 
and  acting  more  prudent,  faithful,  and  diligent,  my 
reckoning  may  not  be  too  foul  at  last.  But  preserve 
me  also  from  all  ney  Hess  cares ;  since  the  care  where 
to  get  something  is  not  the  steward's  business,  but 
only  to  husband  every  thing  fiithfully .  Therefore  Lu- 
ther often  prayed,  -'■  teach  me,  O  Lord,  and  give  me 
wisdom  and  grace  to  govern  my  house,  and  manage 
all  my  affiirs  rightly.  Be  thou  the  principal  Gover- 
nor and  Father  of  my  family.  I  will  be  nothing  but 
thy  servant ;  direct  me  only  in  all  things,  that  I  may 
not  suflfer  or  do  any  harm."  He  that  does  not  expos- 
tulate with  God,  but  accuses  himself  as  guilty  in  all 
things,  even  his  best  performances,  and  flies  to  Christ 
as  his  only  refuge,  will  bejustified  of  God  through  the 
righteousness  ofhis  dear  Son.  And  being  thus  adopt- 
ed of  God,  he  is  ready  and  willing  to  be  governed  and 
directed  by  him  in  all  things  as  a  child. 

That  awful  day  will  surely  come, 
The  appointed  hour  makes  haste, 

When  I  must  stand  before  my  Judge, 
And  pass  the  solemn  test. 

Thou  lovely  chief  of  all  my  joys. 

Thou  sovereign  of  my  heart : 
How  could  I  bear  to  hear  thy  voice, 

Pronounce  the  sound,  Depart ! 


368  DECEMBER  16. 

Examine  yourselves ,  whether  you  be  in  the  faith, 
2  Cor.  xiii.  5. 

Many  would  be  converted  and  become  believers,  if 
they  did  not  presumptuously  pretend  to  it,  thinking 
they  were  no  heathens,  but  had  faith  already.  For 
such  as  have  actually  faith,  often  doubt  whether  they 
have  any  or  not ;  and  those  that  are  without,  imagine 
that  they  have  enough.  But  faith  is  only  wrought  in 
the  souls  of  those  who  are  deeply  humbled  by  a  tho- 
rough conviction  of  the  greatness  and  heinousness  of 
their  sins,  confessing  themselves  not  only  with  their 
lips,  but  with  a  true  sense  of  their  hearts,  to  be  the 
chief  of  sinners,  and  looking  upon  themselves  as  the 
most  unworthy  of  all  creatures.  Without  this  repent- 
ance we  do  not  enter  through  the  right  gate,  and  our 
faith  is  a  false  imagination.  For  faith  is  the  greatest 
and  most  difficult  thing  even  to  a  child  of  God  ;  it  re- 
ceives Christ  into  the  heart  and  overcomes  the  devil, 
world,  and  all  sins,  which  is  not  so  easily  done.  There- 
fore, ifthegeneralityof  people  had  true  faith,  nothing 
would  be  easier  than  that.  For  what  can  be  easier 
than  to  conceive  thoughts  and  imaginations  of  any 
thing  ?  Then  there  would  be  no  need  to  pray  for  faith, 
to  strive  and  examine  ourselves  ;  consequently,  these 
words  were  superfluous  in  the  bible.  For  such  a 
faith  has  every  one,  even  the  most  wicked.  But  they 
deceive  themselves,  for  faith  is  said  to  be  the  victory 
over  the  world.  And  if  the  first  Christians  had  need 
to  examine  themselves,  how  much  more  have  we  ? 
Therefore,  the  best  and  safest  way  is,  to  pray  ear- 
nestly for  that  faith  which  has  boldness,  and  triumph 
even  in  death. 


DECEMBER  17.  369 

For  thy  name^s  sake  lead  me  and  guide  me.  Pull 
me  out  of  the  net,  ^c.  Psal.  xxxi.  3 — 5.  When 
the  ark  set  forward,  Moses  said,  rise  up,  Lord, 
and  let  thine  enemies  be  scattered;  and  let  them 
that  hate  thee  flee  bejorethee.  Numb.  x.  35. 

Every  one  has  his  own  particular  gift,  as  also  his 
own  particular  enemies,  who  lay  various  nets  and  hin- 
drances in  his  way.  But  as  every  body  must  clear 
the  way  for  a  king,  when  he  travels,  much  more  for 
our  enemies,  when  the  King  of  kings  guides  us  and 
goes  before  us.  Grant  only,  O  Lord,  that  all  my  go- 
ing  and  resting  may  be  done  at  thy  hints.  Numb.  iv. 
17 — 23.  Be  gloriously  pleased  to  go  always  before 
me,  and  to  make  room,  that  mine  enemies  may  be 
scattered  and  fall  into  their  own  nets.  For  thou  who 
dvvelleth  in  heaven,  laughest  at  all,  even  at  mine  in- 
ward spiritual  enemies,  and  art  willing  and  able  to 
confound  the  greatest  craft  and  power  even  of  the 
most  inveterate  and  dangerous.  And  ''  since  thou 
enlightens  my  darkness,  and  art  a  buckler  to  all  those 
that  trust  in  thee,  and  not  only  teachest  my  hands  to 
war,  but  even  fightest  for  me  as  the  God  of  my  cove- 
nant," Psal.  xviii.  23 — 36.  I  shall  surely  come  oflf 
more  than  conquerer. 

My  faith  would  seize  some  promise,  Lord, 
There's  power  and  safety  in  thy  word  ; 
Not  all  that  earth  and  hell  can  say, 
Shall  tempt  or  drive  my  soul  away. 


S60  DECEMBER  18. 

Watch  (and  be  faithful  every  hour)  for  ye  Tcnow^ 
not  what  hour  your  Lord  doth  come.  Matt, 
xxiv.  42. 

A  christian  hath  two  watchful  eyes ;  with  one, 
he  looks  always  upon  himself  as  a  sinner,  with  the 
other  he  looks  upon  Christ  as  being  without  sin  in 
him.  These  things  must  be  watched  evermore, 
for  as  soon  as  we  turn  our  eyes  off,  and  look  upon 
others,  or  our  own  gifts,  either  pride  or  despair 
will  follow ;  both  which  is  very  dangerous  in  the 
last  hour. 

Death  !  'tis  a  melancholy  day 

To  those  that  have  no  God, 
When  the  poor  soul  is  forced  away 

To  seek  her  last  abode. 

In  vain  to  heaven  she  lifts  her  eyes; 

But  guilt,  a  heavy  chain, 
Still  drags  her  downward  from  the  skies, 

To  darkness,  fire,  and  pain. 

Awake  and  mourn,  ye  heirs  of  hell ; 

Let  stubborn  sinners  fear  ; 
You  must  be  driven  from  earth,  and  dwell 

A  long  FOR  EVER  there. 

See  how  thr  pit  gapes  wide  for  you, 

And  flashes  in  your  face  : 
And  thou,  my  souU  look  downwards  too, 

And  sing  recovering  grace. 


DECEMBER  19.  361 

What  wilt  thou,  queen  Esther  ?  and  what  is  thy 
request?  it  shall  be  even  given  thee  to  the  half 
of  the  kingdom.  Esther,  v.  3. 

Dost  thou  want  nothing,  O  poor  soul  ?  hast  thou 
nothing  to  ask  ?  O  yes  !  you  say  a  great  deal.     Well 
then,  draw  near  to  tiiy  Gracious  King  and  Bride- 
groom without  fear.     Lo  !  he  holds  out  his  golden 
isceptre  to  thee,  saying,  ask,  only  ask,  Bot  only  the 
half  hut  my  whole  kingdom  shall  be  granted  ;  nay, 
I  will  g^ive  myself  unto  thee.    O  dear  soul,  pray  and 
tell  him  every  thing  that  is  wanting,  be  it  ever  so 
great  or  ever  so  small.  His  loving  kindness  will  hear 
even  the  least  petitiori,  nay  he  will  pretend  to  be  ig- 
norant of  what  thou  dost  not  tell  him.      But  what- 
ever is  poured  out  before  him,  is  actually  addressed 
and  lodged  in  its  proper  place,  and  does  not  lie  upon 
thy  heart  any  longer,  but  upon  his  heart  which  can- 
not rest  till  yoii  are  relieved.     An(\  since  you  have 
experienced  his  assistance  so  often,  in  greater  or 
lesser  things,  you  may  depend  upon  his  being  as 
willing  arid  able  now  to  help  thee  out  of  all  troubles. 
We  often  irnagine  we  were  willing  and  drawing  him, 
but  he  was  unwiHinj*  an</  refused  our  request  ;   but 
it  is  not  so  ;  he  rather  draws  us  and  desires  our  re- 
lief more  than  we  do  ;  for  it  is  he  that  works  even 
this  willing  mind. 

Are  those  the  happy  persons  Jiere, 

Who  dwell  the  nearest  to  their  God  ! 
Has  God  invited  sinners  near  ? 

And  Jesus  bought  this  grace  with  blood  ! 
Go  then,  my  soul,  address  the  Son, 

To  lead  thee  near  the  Father's  face, 
Gaze  on  his  glories  yet  unknown. 

And  taste  the  blessings  of  his  grace. 
31 


362  DECEMBER  20. 

What  wilt  thou  that  I  should  do  unto  thee? 
Luke,  xviii,   18. 

O  Lord,  dost  thou  ask  me  also  this  question  ?  O 
yes  !  well  then,  I  answer,  that  1  may  see  how  gra- 
cious thou  art,  that  knowing  thy  love  in  thy  light, 
I  may  love  thee  again.  This  is  the  sum  and  sub- 
stance of  all  my  prayer;  because  thou  requirest  it 
so  seriously  of  me.  iCor.  xvi.22.  But  thou  dost 
not  require  it  as  of  myself,  well  knowing  that  I  can 
do  nothing  ;  but  signifieth  only  what  I  am  to  ask  of 
thee,  and  what  thou  art  willing  to  give  and  to  work. 
For,  thou  dost  not  require  any  thirjg,  but  what  thou 
workest  thyself ;  and  workest  every  thing,  what  thou 
requirest.  Therefore,  faith  and  love  being  required 
by  thee,  I  require  the  same  from  thee  again.  Grant, 
O  grant  them  to  me,  that  I  may  return  them  to  thee 
again.  And  since  nothing  is  pleasing  to  thee  but 
what  is  thy  own  gift,  I  trust  that  thou  wilt  certainly 
hear  and  fulfil  this  my  request.  However  as  my  salva- 
tion is  not  grounded  on  my  own  but  on  thine  and  thy 
Father's  love  and  counsel,  to  save  me  by  free  grace 
through  thy  merits,  I  go  on  covered  all  over  with 
grace  and  pardon.  This  is  treasure  enough,  by  which 
my  heart  can  be  well  satisfied. 

He  that  can  shake  the  worlds  he  made, 
Or  with  his  word  or  with  his  rod, 

His  goodness,  how  amazmg  great ! 
And  what  a  condescending  God. 

Our  sorrows  and  our  tears  we  pour 

Into  the  bosom  of  our  God  ; 
He  hears  us  in  the  mournful  hour, 

And  helps  to  bear  the  heavy  load. 


DECEMBER  21.  363 

In  returning  and  rest  shall  ye  he  saved,  in  quietness 
and  confidence  shall  be  your  strength.  Isa.  xxx. 
15.  Suffer  every  thing  that  befalls  thee.  Sirach, 
ii.  4. 

Christians  must  suffer  patiently.  This  is  their 
armour,  God  fightinjr  for  and  assisting  them.  But 
when  we  are  unwilling  to  suffer,  going  about  to 
make  complaints  every  where,  and  to  seek  human 
comfort,  or  to  aid  ourselves,  we  neglect  and  lose 
the  comfort  and  aid  of  the  Lord,  we  are  stirring  up 
the  wasp-nest  of  our  unruly  thoughts,  and  bring 
more  troubles  upon  ourselves  and  others  ;  nay,  we 
are  fighting  against  God,  who  thereby  intends  to 
cure  our  impatience,  pride,  and  anger.  For  the 
more  we  are  peevish  and  wild,  the  more  desperate 
is  our  disease,  and  consequently  we  have  so  much 
moie  need  of  such  sharp,  but  w^holesome  plasters 
of  afflictions,  to  mortify  these  wWd  passions  of  the 
flesh.  Therefore  we  must  not  presume  to  tear 
them  off,  for  fear  of  making  the  wounds  and  pains 
any  worse.  For  he  that  will  avoid  one  trouble, 
perhaps  runs  into  ten  others.  Sometimes  it  is  pos- 
sible and  easy  to  rid  ourselves,  but  the  help  is  not 
so  glorious  and  blessed,  as  if  we  had  waited  for  the 
help  of  the  Lord. 

Sure  I  must  bear  if  I  would  reign, 

Increase  my  courage.  Lord  ! 
rU  bear  the  toil,  endure  the  pain, 

Supported  by  thy  word. 
Must  1  be  carried  to  the  skies, 

On  flow'ry  beds  of  ease, 
While  others  suffered  for  the  prize, 

And  sailed  through  bloody  seas. 


364  DECEMBER  22. 

Whoso  loveth  instruction  loves  knowledge,  but  he 
that  (self-conceitedly)  hates  reproof  is  brutish, 
Prov.   1.  Was  he  even  a  great  philosopher. 

Therefore  we  should  take  and  make  the  best  of 
the  reproofs  of  others,  though  they  were  not  with- 
out blemishes,  and  not  be  like  thorns  and  briers, 
pricking  and  hurting  those  that  touch  them.  Noth- 
ing can  be  said  so  bad  of  us,  which  we  hrive  not 
the  root  of  in  our  heart.  And  though  we  are  con- 
vinced of,  and  strive  against  our  own  weakness, 
yet  it  may  not  be  so  earnestly  that  we  conquer. 
Therefore  God  comes  to  our  assistance  in  a  sharp, 
reproof  of  others;  for  he  knows  how  to  use  even 
the  faults  of  others  to  our  good.  And  if  we  re- 
ceive every  thing  as  from  him  alone,  striving  sa 
much  against  tliis  our  frniltVj  that  we  may  not  be 
offensive  to  our  neighbour  any  more,  we  certainly 
gain  a  great  victory  and  blessing.  But  if  we  grow 
impatient  and  make  many  excuses,  unv'illing  to 
put  up  any  thing,  we  make  evil  worde,  and  neglect 
the  amendment  of  ourselves  and  others.  O  Lord^ 
make  us  better  and  give  patience. 

How  should  the  sons  of  Adam's  race 

Be  pure  before  their  God  ? 
If  he  contend  in  righteousness 

We  fall  beneath  his  rod, 

To  vindicate  my  words  and  thoughts 

I'll  make  no  more  pretence  ; 
Not  one  of  all  my  thousand  faults 

Can  bear  a  just  defence. 


DECEMBER  23.  565 

When  I  am  weak,  then  lam  strong.  2  Cor.  xii.  10. 

The  Lord  is  my  strength.  Exod.  xv.  2.    In  the 

fear  of  the  Lord  is  strong  confidence.  Prov.  xiv. 

The  more  we  are  sensible  of  our  weakness,  and 
despair  of  our  own  strength,  the  more  boldness  we 
can  have  in  our  confidence  to  God.  Fear  and  dis- 
trust generally  take  their  rise  from  self-confidence. 
"  A  christian  (as  Luther  observes)  has  always  a  true 
fear  of  God  in  his  heart,  thinking  in  all  things,  O 
Lord,  that  I  may  not  displease  thee  ;  for  the  right 
spirit  is  very  faint-hearted  towards  God,  but  against 
tyrants  and  devils  the  Holy  Ghost  inspires  him  with 
courage,  that  he  says,  though  1  am  a  poor,  weak 
worm,  yet  I  am  strong  ;  the  Lord  being  my  strength, 
who  can  be  so  strong  as  to  oppose  hiu»  ?  they  do  not 
fight  against  me,  but  against  thee,  O  God  ;  I  am  thy 
wcakfiess,  thou  art  my  strength.  The  devil  takes 
us  to  be  weak,  but  in  times  of  distress,  the  Lord 
says,  I  am  here.  Then  it  is  as  with  the  worm  on 
the  hook,  which  the  fish  is  going  to  swallow  up,  and 
thereby  is  catched.  Thus  God  suffers  us  to  be  weak 
and  f  iint,  ,but  he  being  hidden  in  us  with  his  strength, 
preserves  us  when  the  enemies  rise  to  devour  us, 
not  knowing  that  their  endeavour  is  to  devour  God, 
which  they  will  never  execute,  by  any  means." 

His  power  the  whole  creation  rules, 

And  on  the  starry  skies 
Sits  smiling  at  the  weak  designs 

Which  envious  foes  devise. 
In  vain  the  busy  sons  of  hell 

Still  new  distractions  try, 
Their  souls  shall  pine  with  envious  rage, 

And  vex  away  and  die. 
31* 


3G6  DECEMBER.  24. 

He  that  believes  shall  not  make  haste.  Isa.  xxviiu 
16.  Lift  up  thy  rod.  Exod.  xiv.  16.  Netc  trials y 
Tieti)  blessings! 

What  seems  to  oppose,  nay  to  destroy  our  faith, 
inust  further  and  quicken  it  most.  Faith,  is  the 
m(»st  j)Ie:isant  and  important  thing  in  the  eyes  of 
God.  Jer.  v.  .3-  For  he  is  exceeding:  willing  to  help 
us,  but  cannot  do  it  till  he  has  first  given  us  faith  ; 
since  it  is  always  said,  thy  faith  halh  saved  ihee. 
Therefore,  if  you  will  have  his  assistriuce,  believe 
only;  for  humble  faith  has  tlie  Lord  as  it  would 
have  him,  and  receives  all  things.  Matt  xv.  28. 
Luther  says,  "  Faith,  is  a  great,  miraculous  thing  ; 
giving  such  courage  to  a  j)oor,  weak  man,  that  he 
can  say,  if  oil  the  devils  fall  upon  me,  and  all  the 
emperors  and  kings,  nay,  heaven  and  earth  o{)pose4 
me,  yet  I  am  sure  that  1  shall  be  saved."  But  with- 
out faith  God  can  do  no  wonders  and  miracles  for 
us.  But  such  as  believe  shall  be  saved,  should  even 
heaven  and  eaith  pass  away:  for  he  has  promised 
and  said,  He  that  believes  shall  be  saved,;  which 
word  stands  firmer  than  heaven  and  earth,  since 
thereby  he  has  created  all  things,  consequently  he 
■will,  and  it  is  fit  we  should  depend  and  trust  upon 
that,  though  heaven  and  earth  and  all  the  stars  and 
elements  were  against  us.  Taking  therefore  the 
word  in  our  hands,  and  fighting  resolutely  with  it 
against  our  enemies,  we  shall  surely  beat  them, 
down  and  break  through  all  assaults  and  oppositions. 

His  sovereign  power,  what  mortal  knows? 
If  he  commands,  who  dare  oppose  ? 
With  strength  he  girds  himself  around, 
And  treads  the  rebels  to  the  ground. 


DECEMBER  25.  367 

If  any  man  will  come  after  me,  let  him  deny  himself, 
Luke,  ix.  23. 

Doing  this,  all  the  rest  will  go  easy  ;  if  we  know 
that  we  are  nothing,  are  unworthy  of  every  thing, 
and  have  nothing  of  our  own,  we  can  lose  nothing. 
We  have  no  property,  since  we  are  but  stewards 
of  the  Lord.  We  have  no  honour  of  shame  of 
our  own,  after  the  manner  of  the  world  ;  this  be- 
ing our  only  honour,  if  God  is  glorified,  and  our 
only  shame,  if  he  he  dishonoured  by  us.  The  glory 
of  God  we  must  have  at  heart,  and  in  this  case  be 
like  lions,  but  in  our  own  cause  like  lambs.  There- 
fore when  we  are  crossed  in  things  which  do  not 
concern  the  glory  of  God  and  the  real  good  of  our 
neighbour,  but  our  own  interest,  and  are  unwilling 
to  suffer  something,  we  shall  miscarry  and  be  in- 
volved in  greater  troubles.  But  denying  ourselves 
we  shall  loose  only  a  good  deal  of  vexation,  and  in- 
stead of  this,  receive  Christ,  with  all  his  spiritual; 
and  temporal  blessings,  as  far  as  we  want  them, 
which  alone  can  make  us  cheerful  and  happy.  But 
whosoever  desires  to  please  the  world  in  its  taste, 
"  with  his  singularities,"  seeking  himself  and  his 
own  glory,  cannot  be  a  follower  of  Christ  in  this, 
and  have  boldness  towards  God.  And  how  will  it 
be  with  them  in  the  hour  of  death  and  judgment  ? 
|iere  the  learned  may  try  themselves  also  ;  ^yhoIr^ 
<io  they  please  ?  God  or  the  world  ? 

Deny  thyself  and  take  the  cross, 
Is  the  Redeemer's  great  command. 

Nature  must  count  her  glory  dross 
If  she  will  gain  the  heavenly  land, 


368  DECEMBER  26. 

How  long  do  ye  halt  between  two  opinions  9  If 
the  Lord  be  God,  folio  whim.  1  Kings,  xviii. 
21.  For  as  it  was  your  mind  to  go  astray 
from  God;  so  being  returned,  seek  him  ten 
times  more,  Baruch,  iv.  28. 

Many  pretend  to  be  friends  to  the  children  of 
God  and  to  the  children  of  this  world  at  once,  and 
take  it  to  be  great  wisdom  :  but  such  the  Lord 
catches  in  their  wisdom,  and  very  often  puts  them 
to  x>pen  shame  before  the  world.  O  !  poor  soul, 
how  long  will  you  divide  your  soul  ?  How  long 
will  you  tarry  to  surrender  yourself  entirely  up  to 
God,  without  exception  ?  If  you  would  be  saved, 
your  change  must  be  entire  and  absolute,  you  must 
be  made  spiritual  and  heavenly  minded.  But  the 
longer  you  neglect  this  and  bargain  with  God,  the 
harder  the  work  of  conversion  will  go  ;  and  how 
soon  may  death  overtake  you  !  What  can  the  world 
profit  you  then  ?  But  with  Christ  you  would  be  a 
thousand  times  more  happy  in  life  and  in  death, 
Haiiten  therefore  and  bargain  no  longer  with  God, 
he  will  have  your  whole  heart,  saying,  "  Give  me 
thy  heart,  thy  whole  heart,"  or  nothing  at  all.  And 
he  that  does  not  give  up  his  all  to  him,  can  never 
come  to  rest. 

No  longer  will  I  ask  the  love 

Of  worldly  friendship  more  ; 
The  happiness  that  I  approve 

Is  not  within  its  power. 
Jesus,  my  God  !  I  know  his  name. 

His  name  is  all  my  trust ; 
Nor  will  he  put  my  soul  to  shame, 

Nor  let  my  hope  be  lost. 


DECEMBER  27.  369 

How  often  would  I  have  gathered  thy  children 
together,  and  ye  would  not !   Matt,  xviii.  37, 
For,  who  has  believed  our  report?  Isa.  liii.  1, 
How  often  does  God  allure  thee  by  his  word  and 
many  agreeable  and  disagreeable  providences,  but 
thou  dost  not  feel  it,  or  hast  a  thousand  excuses, 
though  before  God,  they  are  all  vain,  and  will  stand 
thee  in  no  stead.     The  true  reason  is.  because  thou 
wilt  not,  therefore  thou  canst  not.     Thou  dost  not 
follow  the  word  of  God  ;  hence  comes  that  great 
darkness  and  offence  at  God  and  his  children.     O 
Lord,  cast  out  that  evil  spirit  of  slandering  and  ly- 
ing, that  I  may  never  be  offended  at  thee,  but  be 
entirely  reconciled  to  all  thy  ways,  that  my  heswt 
may  be  won  over  to  thee,  and  stirred  up  to  incessant 
thanksgiving  and  praise.     O  good  Lord  deliver  me 
from  all  the  powers  of  darkness, and  suffer  nothing  to. 
abide  in  me,  which  can  in  any  wise  hurt  me.  Amen^ 
O  that  thy  statues  every  hour 

Might  dwell  upon  my  mind  ! 
Thence  I  derive  a  quick'ning  power. 

And  daily  peace  I  find. 
To  meditate  thy  precepts.  Lord, 

Shall  be  my  sweet  employ  : 
My  soul  shall  ne'er  forget  thy  word, 

Thy  word  is  all  my  joy. 
How  would  I  run  in  thy  commands, 

If  thou  my  heart  discharge 
From  sin  and  Satan's  hateful  chains. 

And  set  my  feet  at  large  ! 
Pepart  from  me,  ye  wicked  race, 
Whose  hands  and  hearts  are  ill 
*     I  love  my  God,  I  love  his  waya, 
^nd  myst  obey  his  will. 


370  DECEMBER  28. 

Labour  not  for  the  meat  that  perishes,  hut  for  the 
meat  which  endureth  unto  everlasting  life. 
John,  vi.  27.  /  must  work  the  works  o/ 
him  that  sent  me  vjhile  it  is  day.  Chap.  ix. 
4.     For  the  time  is  short.  1  Cor.  vii.  29. 

There  is  much  labouring,  writing,  and  doing,  but 
it  is  only  to  get  the  name  of  a  great  learned  man  ; 
which  does  not  bring  any  fruit  and  reward  for  eter- 
nity. O  Lord,  how  soon  is  my  life  at  a  period ! 
How  little  or  nothing  good  have  I  worked  !  O  how 
much  have  I  wasted  of  my  time  and  strength  al- 
ready, only  in  vain  thoughts  !  And  what  shall  I  say 
of  all  the  unprofitable, nay  sinful  words  and  works? 

0  Lord,  I  cannot  answer  thee  one  of  a  thousand. 

1  am  ashamed  and  humbled  in  thy  sight.  Pardon, 
pardon  me,  O  Lord,  and  grant  me  that  henceforth 
I  may  redeem  my  time  and  strength  better,  and 
bestow  every  part  of  them  upon  the  most  impor- 
tant and  useful  things,  especially  upon  prayers  for 
myself  and  others.  Nay,  let  me  spend  all  my 
hours,  as  it  were,  with  prayers,  and  thus  send  them 
before  me  into  eternity,  that  I  may  reap  a  blessed 
fruit  of  every  hour,  in  the  world  to  come.  O  there- 
fore, set  eternity  in  all  things  before  my  eyes  as  my 
only  mark. 

Our  days  alas!  our  mortal  days 

Are  short  and  wretched  too  ; 
Evil  and  few,  the  patriarch  says, 

And  well  the  patriarch  knew. 
Let  heavenly  love  prepare  my  soul, 

And  call  her  to  the  skies, 
Where  years  of  long  salvation  roll, 

And  glory  never  dies. 


DECEMBER  29.  371 

We  being  many,  are  one  body  in  Christ,  and 
everyone  members  one  of  another,  Rom.  xii.  5. 

O  the  blessed  commnnion  of  saints  !  one  member 
has  the  benefit  of  all  other  members,  gifts,  prayers, 
and  ministrations.  One  prays  for  ail,  and  all  pray 
for  one.  What  one  has,  the  other  enjoys  also.  It 
may  be  truly  said  of  them,  It  is  all  yours.  There  is 
no  envy,  no  haughtiness,  no  strife,  or  harm  :  For 
why  should  1  envy  that  which  is  my  own  ?  Why 
should  I  despise  that  which  serves  for  my  necessary 
assistance  ?  And  why  should  I  strive  against,  and 
hurt  him,  whose  hurt  is  my  own  ?  Is  there  any  strife 
or  collision  between  the  members  of  our  natural  bo- 
dy ?  By  no  means  ;  they  all  serve,  help,  and  assist 
one  another,  and  if  one  be  injured  and  suffers,  all 
the  rest,  as  it  were,  run  to  its  relief,  and  are  neither 
tired  nor  angry,  if  the  healing  does  not  follow  imme- 
diately. O  Lord,  unite  us  all  into  such  a  conimunion 
and  general  sympathy,  and  stop  all  open  and  subtle 
divisions  amongst  our  members,  who  pretend  to 
'something  extraordinary  and  to  be  wise  above  the 
rest.  Restrain  that  mean,  sectarian,  and  self-con- 
ceited spirit  of  the  world,  granting  true  humility  to 
all,  then  we  shall  hve  in  a  solid  union  and  uninter- 
rupted harmony. 

O  glorious  portion  of  the  saints  ! 
Let  love  suppress  our  sore  complaints, 
And  tune  our  hearts  and  tongues  to  sing 
All  glory  to  our  sovereign  King. 


372  DECEMBER  30. 

Except  the  Lord  build  th^  house,  they  labour  in 
vain  that  build  it.  Psal.  cxxvii.  1. 

Luther  on  these  words  says, "  Let  the  Lord  build 
and  manage  the  house ;  meddle  not  with  this  work ; 
it  is  his  part,  and  not  thine  own  to  take  care  of  it ; 
therefore  leave  the  care  to  him  that  is  the  supreme 
Landlord  and  husbandman.  Is  there  much  wanted 
to  furnish  and  provide  for  a  house  ?  The  Lord  is 
greater  than  a  house.  He  that  fills  heaven  and  earth 
will  Certainly  be  able  to  fill  a  house.  No  wonder  that 
there  is  a  great  want  in  a  house,  if  God  is  not  the 
governor  in  it !  because  thou  dost  not  see  him  that  is 
to  fill  the  house,  surely  all  the  corners  must  seem  to 
be  empty  ;   but  looking  upon  him  thou  wouldst  never 
observe  one  corner  to  be  empty,  every  one  would 
seem  to  be  full,  and  is  really  full  :  if  it  is  not,  the  fault 
is  only  in  thy  eye,  as  it  is  in  a  blind  man  who  cannot 
see  the  sun.     To  him  that  sees  rightly,  the  Lord 
changes  the  word,  and  says  not,  there  goes  much  into 
a  house,  but  there  goes  much  out  of  it.''  O  Lord,  give 
only  faith,  love,  and  knowledge  of  thy  will,  that  I  may 
not  only  expect  all  things  confidently  from  thy  hand, 
since  a  labourer  is  worthy  of  his  hire  ;  but  also  man- 
age every  thing  afterwards  as  a  faithful  steward  to 
such  purposes  thou  hast  granted  it  for,  be  it  for  my 
own  use,  or  for  the  use  of  others,  and  that  I  may  never 
be  saving  to  thy  dishonour,  for  my  purse  is  thine,  and 
consequently  rich  enough. 

'Tis  all  in  vain,  till  God  hath  blest ; 
He  can  make  rich,  yet  give  us  rest : 
Children  and  friends  are  blessings  too. 
If  God  our  sovereign  makes  them  so. 


DECEMBER  31.  373 

In  those  days  and  in  that  time,  saith  the  Lord, 
the  iniquity  of  Israel  shall  he  sought  for,  and 
there  shall  be  none.  Jer.  1.  20.  I^or  I  will  for- 
give their  iniquity,  and  I  will  remember  their 
sins  no  more.  Chap.  xxxi.  34* 

I  blush,  O  Lord,  when  I  remember  my  sins  and 
consider  that  thy  pure  eyes  have  seen  them  all ;  but 
thou  hast  promised  not  only  to  pardon  and  not  be  an- 
gry  at  or  upbraid  me  for  them,  as  men  do  ;  but  even 
to  forget  every  thing  entirely,  as  if  thou  didst  not 
know  what  has  passed  in  the  sinful  years  of  my  hfe, 
and  to  look  upon  me  in  time  and  eternity,  as  a  dear 
child  who  had  never  done  any  thing  amiss  ;  since  thoii 
dost  not  see  any  sin,  nor  even  a  spot  or  wrinkle  in  me> 
but  only  thy  dear  son,  and  his  blood,  consequentl/ 
nothing  but  v^'hat  is  worthy  of  thy  love.     Therefor3 
thou  lovest  me  more  than  I  love  myself;  for  the  lo^e 
I  bear  myself  is  but  human.    Thou  lovest  me  as  iItou 
lovest  thine  own  son.  John,xvii.  16.  And  since  this 
is  a  divine,  perfect,  and  eternal  love,  I  must  needs  en- 
joy the  same  being  in  him,  and  one  with  him,  his 
member,  his  bride,  and  very  child.     If  it  is  possible 
for  thee  to  hate  him,  then  thou  canst  hate  me  also  ; 
but  this  can  never  be,   since  sin,    which  only  de- 
serves to  be  hated,   is  perfectly  and  eternally  put 
away. 

Jesus,  we  bless  thy  Father's  name  ; 
Thy  God  and  ours  are  both  the  same  r 
What  heavenly  blessings  from  his  throne 
Flow  down  to  sinners  through  his  Son  I 

With  Christ  our  Lord  we  share  our  part. 
In  the  affections  of  .his  heart  ; 
Nor  shall  our  souls  be  thence  removed, 
Till  he  forgets  his  first  beloved. 

32 


374         FEBRUARY  29.  (leap-year.) 

Blessed  is  he  whose  transgression  is  forgiven,  whose 
sin  is  covered,    Psal.  xxxii.  J . 

We  have  all  need  of  learning  and  praying  the 
fifth  petition  of  the  Lord's  prayer  better  and  better; 
for  we  still  feel  sin,  nay,  when  it  is  best  with  us  we 
have  the  most  tender  feeling  of  sin  ;  but  when  we 
draw  back  we  become  blind  to  ourselves.  To  do 
sin  is  wrong  ;  but  to  feel  sin,  and  run  to  the  phy- 
sician with  it,  is  good.  Luther  says,  "  To  be  sen- 
sible of  sin  is  a  good  sign,  therefore  we  are  not  to 
despair,  but  to  thank  God  heartily  for  it.  For  as 
long  as  a  Christian  lives  in  the  flesh,  sin  remains  in 
hun  ;  but  since  he  is  protected  under  the  shadow  of 
ihe  wings  of  Christ,  as  a  chicken  under  the  wings 
bf  a  hen,  and  is  covered  with  that  larje,  extensive 
heaven,  whose  name  is  forgiveness  of  sin,  the  Lord 
does  not  lay  the  remaining  sins  to  his  charge."  Now, 
O  Lord,  grant  that  1  may  look  beyond  all  that  is 
good  and  bad,  upon  thee  alone,  how  thou  coverest 
all  my  sin  ;  and  let  me  not  only  always  hve  and  rest 
in  the  remission  of  sin  as  mine  element,  but  also  die 
in  it  at  last. 

Justice  upon  a  dreadful  throne 

Maintains  the  rights  of  God, 
While  mercy  sends  her  pardon  down, 

Bought  with  a  Saviour's  blood. 

Now,  to  my  soul,  immortal  King, 

Speak  some  forgiving  word  ; 
Then  'twill  be  double  joy  to  sing 

The  glories  of  my  Lord. 


A   FEW 
FOR   PRIVATE    USE. 


A  TRAYEK  FOK  THE  GKACE  OF  rEKSEVERAISCE. 

Eternal  God,  with  whom  is  everlasting  strength, 
thou  art  able  to  keep  us  from  falling,  and  to  per- 
form the  good  work  begun  in  us,  till  the  day  of  Je- 
sus Christ.  But,  Lord,  thou  knowest  how  weak 
and  changeable  I  am,  how  wavering,  and  bent  to 
backsliding;  how  apt  to  shrink  back  or  start  aside 
after  1  have  been  hopefully  set  ivi  the  way  towards 
heaven  ;  and  in  what  danger  1  still  am  of  ruining 
myself,  after  all  the  great  things  thou  hast  done  for 
me.  O  Lord  of  love,  have  pity  on  my  infirmities, 
and  strengthen  me  in  my  weakness.  Preserve  me, 
thou  blessed  guardian  of  thy  people,  who  keepest 
the  feet  of  thy  saints  ;  O  preserve  me  from  the  dan- 
ger of  apostacy,  and  falling  away  from  any  good 
beginnings,  which  thy  grace  has  wrought  in  me  : 
And  put  thy  fear  in  my  heart,  that  T  may  not  depart 
from  thee.  Make  me  so  firmly  thine,  that  nothing 
which  befalls  me  in  the  world,  may  ever  part  thee 
and  my  soul ;  and  make  me  so  resolute  for  thy  ser- 
vice, that  nothing  which  any  one  can  say  or  do,  may 
interrupt  me  in,  or  take  me  off  from  that  way  of 
life  which  is  to  depart  from  hell  beneath.  O  let 
me  not  be  of  the  number  of  those  who  draw  back 
to  destruction  ;  but  of  their  happy  number,  who  do 
hollevG  to  the  saving  of  the  soul. 


376 

O  Lord  God,  thou  hast  begun  to  show  thy  ser- 
vant thy  greatness,  and  thy  mighty  hand  ;  go  en,  I 
pray  thee,  to  work  for  the  glory  of  thy  name»  and 
to  perfect  that  which  concerns  me.  Thou  hast  been 
my  help,  leave  me  not,  nor  forsake  me,  O  God  of 
my  salvation  ;  but  hold  thou  me  up  and  I  shall  be 
safe,  and  1  will  have  respect  to  thy  statutes  con- 
tinually. Establish,  O  Lord,  strengthen,  settle  me  ; 
and  leave  me  no  will  or  power  to  resist  the  gracious 
designs  and  methods  of  thy  love  and  mercy,  for  the 
healing  and  saving  of  my  soul.  And  as  1,  by  my 
frailty,  do  still  renew  my  sins,  gracious  Lord, 
through  thy  mercy,  renew  me  to  repentance ;  and 
though  I  fall,  let  me  not  utterly  be  cast  down,  but 
uphold  me  by  thy  almighty  hand  ;  preserve  me  to 
thy  heavenly  kingdom,  and  keep  me  by  thy  power, 
through  faith  to  salvation.  Lord  make  me  faithful 
unto  death,  that  t/iou  mayest  give  me  the  crown  of 
life,  that  blessed  end  of  my  faith,  even  the  eternal 
salvation  of  my  soul,  through  Jesus  Christ,  my  dear 
Lord  and  Saviour.     Amen, 


A  PRAYER  FOR  A  CHILD. 

Glory  be  to  thee,  O  Lord,  in  whom  I  live,  and 
move,  and  have  my  being ;  who  hast  preserved  me 
ever  since  I  was  born. 

I  humbly  worship  thee,  O  Lord  my  heavenly 
Father,  through  Jesus  Christ,  my  Redeemer  ;  O, 
give  me  thy  grace,  that  1  may  faithfully  serve  thee 
all  the  days  of  my  life :  Wash  me  from  the  guilt  of 
my  sins  in  the  fountain  of  Christ's  precious  blood, 
save  me  daily  by  thy  grace  from  the  practise  of  sin  ; 
let  thy  good  Spirit  restrain  and  cleanse  the  corrup- 
tion of  my  nature  :  help  me  to  remember  thee,  my 


377 

Creator,  in  the  days  of  my  youth  :  preserve  me  from 
those  errors  and  follies  to  which  the  frailty  of  my  age 
does  most  expose  me,  and  keep  me  innocent  from 
every  great  oftence  ;  deliver  me  from  lying  and  vani- 
ty, from  picking  and  stealing,  from  swearing  and 
sabbath-breaking,  and  from  the  temptations  of  evil 
company. 

Incline  my  heart  to  all  that  is  good,  that  I  may 
be  modest  and  humble,  true  and  just,  meek  and 
kind,  temperate  and  diligent,  respectful  and  obedient 
to  all  my  superiors,  that  I  may  fear  and  love  thee 
above  all,  and  my  neighbour  as  myself.  Let  thy 
good  providence  defend  me  from  all  evil  night  and 
day  :  let  the  grace  of  thy  holy  Spirit  continually 
direct  and  assist  me;  bless  me  in  my  learning,  and 
help  me  daily  to  increase  in  knowledge  and  wisdom, 
and  in  all  virtues  ;  instruct  me  O  Lord,  more  and 
more  in  the  truths  of  thy  holy  word,  and  in  the 
knowledge  of  thy  salvation,  that  I  may  live  holy, 
die  comfortably,  and  be  eternally  happy  in  thy  king- 
dom of  bliss  and  glory. 

Bless  all  my  dear  friends,  relations,  and  benefac- 
tors ;  grant  to  them  whatever  may  be  good  for  them 
in  this  life,  and  guide  them  and  me  to  everlasting 
happiness  in  thy  kingdom,  through  Jesus  Christ, 
my  dear  Lord  and  Saviour.  Amen. 
Our  Father,  &c. 


A  MORNING  PRAYER. 

O  Lord  God,  that  hearest  prayers,  and  art  nigh 
to  all  that  call  upon  thee  in  truth,  having  thy  ears 
open  to  a  world  of  creatures,  that  continually  depend 
upon  thee !  As  we  are  moved  by  our  own  necessities, 
so  are  we  encouraged  by  the  daily  experience  of 

32* 


378 

thy  mercies  still  to  shelter  ourselves  under  the- 
shadow  of  thy  wings,  and  to  continue  our  suits  and 
supplications  at  the  throne  of  thy  grace.  And  we- 
beg  of  thee,  who  fashionest  ail  the  hearts  of  the- 
sons  of  men,  that  thou  wilt  prepare  our  hearts  to 
come  into  thy  holy  presence  and  to  call  upon  thy  bles- 
sed name,  in  a  due  and  acceptable  manner.  O  !  pour 
upon  us  the  spirit  of  grace  and  of  supplications  ; 
and  let  thy  good  Spirit  help  our  infirmities,  and 
teach  us  to  pray,  and  to  ask  such  things,  and  in 
such  a  way,  as  shall  be  most  agreeable  to  thy  will 
and  most  advantageous  to  our  souls. 

We  have  taken  upon  us  to  speak  unto  thee,  the 
Sovereign  Majesty  of  heaven  and  earth,  who  are 
but  poor  worms,  and  sinful  dust  and  ashes  ;  that 
have  too  just  cause  to  be  afraid,  lest  our  great  and 
manifold  sins  had  provoked  thee  to  hide  thy  face 
from  us,  and  shut  up  thy  loving  kindness  in  dis- 
pleasure against  us.  For  we  have  done  foolishly 
and  wickedly,  in  not  hearkening  to  the  calls  of  thy 
word,  nor  yielding  to  the  monitions  of  thy  Spirit, 
to  walk  in  the  ways  which  thou  hast  set  before  us. 
Our  iniquities  are  increased  over  our  heads,  our 
trespass  is  grown  even  up  to  heaven,  and  our  sins 
are  a  sore  burden,  too  grievous  and  heavy  for  us  to 
bear.  They  are  infinite  debts,  and  sad  accounts  ; 
for  which  if  thou,  O  Lord,  shouldst  enter  into 
judgment  with  us,  we  could  not  answer  thee  one 
of  a  thousand;  but  must  lay  our  hands  upon  our 
mouths,  and  plead  nothing  but  guilty,  having  our 
whole  dependence  upon  thy  mercy. 

O  God,  be  merciful  to  us,  miserable  sinners,  for 
his  sake,  whom  thou  hast  exalted  to  be  a  Prince  and 
9  Saviour,  to  give  repentance  to  thy  people,  and  for- 


379 

giveness  of  their  sins:  be  merciful  to  us,  we  praj 
thee,  and  heal  our  souls,  that  have  greatly  sinned 
against  thee.  O  heal  our  backslidings,  renew  us 
to  repentance,  establish  our  hearts  in  thy  true  fear 
and  love,  and  establish  our  goings  in  thy  holy  ways ; 
that  we  may  not  be  so  wavering  and  bent  to  back- 
sliding, nor  revolt  from  thee  to  turn  to  folly,  after 
thou  in  mercy  hast  spoken  peace  to  our  souls ;  but 
may  go  on  conquering  and  to  conquer  all  the  ene- 
mies of  our  souls,  and  all  the  hindrances  of  our  sal- 
vation, till  Satan  be  bruised  under  our  feet. 

O  thou  God  of  all  grace !  bring  such  thoughts 
to  our  minds,  and  lay  such  considerations  home 
powerfully  upon  our  hearts,  as  thou  knowest  most 
effectual  to  prevail  with  us,  to  work  us  in  thy  will, 
and  to  keep  us  from  our  iniquity,  within  the  bounds 
of  our  duty,  till  thou  receive  us  into  the  blessed 
kingdom  of  thy  glory.  And,  in  the  mean  time, 
sanctify  to  us  all  thy  dealings  with  us ;  and  bless  us 
in  all  our  undertakings,  and  in  all  our  conditions, 
fruitions,  and  relations.  Make  us  humble  in  an 
high  estate,  contented  in  a  low,  and  still  duly  care- 
ful of  our  souls  in  all :  following  after  the  things 
now  which  will  bring  us  true  peace  and  comfort  at 
the  last. 

Dispose  of  us,  we  beseech  thee,  (our  God)  and 
of  all  that  concerns  us  this  day,  to  the  glory  of  thy 
name.  O  keep  us  at  all  times,  and  in  all  places 
and  companies,  from  the  evil  of  sin,  and  from  all 
other  evils,  to  which  the  greatness  of  our  sins  does 
make  us  liable.  And  take  thou,  O  heavenly  Father, 
the  gracious  charge,  and  guidance,  and  government 
of  us  ;  and  so  lead  us  here  in  all  our  ways,  with  thy 
counsel,  that  hereafter  thou  mayest  receive  us  into 


380 

thy  glory  ;  through  thy  tender  mercies,  and  our  Sa- 
viour's abundant  merits  ;  in  whose  own  words,  we 
beg  all  things  needful  for  ourselves  and  others,  at 
thy  hands, 

Our  Father,  &c. 


AN  EVETsING  PRAYER. 

O  liORD,  the  infinite,  incomprehensible  God,  who 
art  before  all,  art  above  all,  and  will  be  for  ever  the 
same,  when  time  shall  be  no  more  !  Thou  hast 
heaven  for  thy  throne  and  the  earth  for  thy  foot- 
stool ;  and  all  the  things  in  both,  continually  in  thy 
sight,  and  at  thy  disposal.  Thou  art  the  Searcher 
of  our  hearts  and  the  Overseer  of  our  whole  lives, 
here  and  every  where  present ;  and  now  and  ever- 
more thou  seest  us,  and  compasselh  our  path,  and 
lying  down,  and  art  thoroughly  acquainted  with  all 
our  ways.  Thou  knowest,  O  Lord,  the  dulness  and 
hardness,  the  vanity  and  deceitfulness  of  our  hearts; 
how  much  ado  have  we  to  bring  and  keep  them  in 
an  holy  frame,  fit  to  attend  upon  thy  heavenly  Ma- 
jesty. For  that  we  were  born  sinners,  and  so  have 
lived  and  continued  ;  and  by  custom  of  sinning, 
and  still  adding  sin  unto  sin,  we  have  made  our- 
selves more  the  children  of  wrath  than  we  are  by 
nature  ;  transgressing  thy  holy,  good,  and  righteous 
laws,  abusing  thy  great  and  manifold  mercies,  tempt- 
ing thy  patience,  despising  thy  goodness,  ofTendingr 
thee  more,  even  for  thy  long  forbearance  with  us, 
and  making  the  very  abundance  of  thy  grace  our  en- 
couragement to  continue  in  our  sins.  So  that  the 
least  of  all  those  mercies  which  we  do  enjoy,  is  far 
above  any  thing  that  we  have  reason  to  expect,  at 
the  hands  of  that  God  whom  we  have  so  greatly 


381 

provoked.  And  justly  mightest  thou,  O  Lord,  with- 
draw thy  tender  mercies  from  us,  and  pour  out  thy 
wrath  and  indignation  to  the  uttermost  upon  us  ; 
making  us  to  find  and  feel  by  woful  experience, 
what  an  evil  and  bitter  thing  it  is  to  trespass  upon 
thee,  as  we  have  done.  Thou  mightest  make  us 
experience  the  same,  in  the  place  of  torment,  and 
outward  darkness,  where  is  weeping  and  wailing 
and  gnashing  of  teeth,  and  from  whence  there  is 
no  redemption. 

But  thou  art  a  God  of  wonderful  patience  to  bear 
with  sinners  ;  and  a  God  of  infinite  goodness  and 
mercy,  to  forgive  the  sins  of  all  them  that  are  peni- 
tent. Thou  hast  said,  that  if  the  wicked  forsake 
his  w^ay,  and  the  unrighteous  man  his  thoughts,  and 
return  to  the  Lord,  thou  wilt  have  mercy  upon  him, 
and  abundantly  pardon.  But,  O  Lord,  thou  know- 
est  that  without  thee  we  cannot  so  much  as  come 
unto  thee,  unless  thou  meet  us  witlj  thy  heavenly 
grace,  and  help  us  with  thy  Almighty  assistance. 
We  humbly  beg,  therefore,  that  thou  wilt  be  gra- 
ciouly  pleased  to  stretch  forth  thy  powerful  and 
merciful  hand,  to  loose  the  captive  chain  wherein 
our  sins  have  entangled  our  souls.  And  let  it  be 
thy  gracious  pleasure,  O  blessed  Lord,  to  set  us 
free  from  every  weight  of  sin  and  yoke  of  bondage, 
that  lies  heavy  upon  our  souls,  and  unfits  us  to 
serve  thee  with  that  sincerity  and  readiness,  and 
gladness  which  thou  requirest  of  thy  people.  O 
help  us  to  see  and  feel,  so  to  hate  and  bewail,"  and 
confess,  and  forsake  our  sins,  that  we  may  have  the 
well-grounded  apprehension,  and  the  comfortable 
persuasion  of  thy  forgiveness  of  them  !  thy  acccept-. 


382 

ance  of  us,  and  that  love  to  us  in  the  blessed  Son 
of  thy  eternal  love. 

And  for  his  sake  wilt  thou  grant  us,  O  Lord,  the 
increase  of  thy  grace,  and  such  aids  of  thy  holy 
Spirit,  as  may  enable  us  to  subdue  our  sins,  and  fit 
us  for  all  the  duties  of  thy  service,  which  either  we 
have  neglected,  or  but  uriduly  and  faultily  performed. 
That  we  may  serve  thee,  our  God,  sincerely  with- 
out hypocrisy;  cheerfully,  without  dulness;  uni- 
versally without  partiality ;  and  constantly  without 
falling  away,  or  being  weary  of  well-doing.  Thou 
art  not  weary  to  do  us  good  :  O  let  us  never  be 
weary  to  do  thee  service.  But  as  thou  hast  plea- 
sure in  the  prosperity  of  thy  servants,  so  let  us  take 
pleasure  in  the  service  of  our  Lord,  and  abound  in 
thy  work,  and  in  thy  love  and  praise  evermore. 
O  fill  up  all  that  is  wanting,  and  reform  whatever 
is  amiss  in  us,  and  perfect  that  which  concerns 
us  ;  making  ususuch  in  our  hearts,  and  in  our  lives, 
towards  thee  our  God,  that  we  may  obtain  thy  bles- 
sed peace  here,  and  thy  heavenly  glory  hereafter. 
And  be  thou  pleased  to  grant  us  now  (out  of  the 
riches  of  thy  grace)  the  comfortable  sense  of  thy 
gracious  acceptance  of  uS:  and  thy  merciful  inten- 
tions towards  us.  O  speak  peace  to  our  con- 
sciences, and  say  to  our  souls,  thou  art  our  salva- 
tion ;  that  we  may  look  upon  thee  our  God,  as  a 
reconciled  Father  to  us  in  Jesus  Christ. 

In  his  great  namp,  and  prevailing  mediation  we 
enlarge  our  petitions,  in  behalf  of  the  whole  race 
of  mankind,  that  are  now  with  us  alive  upon  earth. 
O  that  all  the  ends  of  the  world  may  remember 
themselves,  and  tarn  to  the  Lord,  and  see  the  sal- 
ration  of  our  God!    Do  good,  O  God,  in  thy  gooij 


383    - 

pleasure  to  Zion,  and  build  thou  the  walls  of  Jeru- 
salem, that  we  may  see  the  good  of  it  all  the  days 
of  our  life.  Continue  thy  mercies  to  this  sinful 
land,  whereof  we  are  sinful  members.  Teach  us 
to  know  the  meaning  of  thy  dispensations  to  us; 
and  help  us  to  improve  by  all  thy  dealings  with  us. 
O  turn  all  our  hearts  to  thee,  as  the  heart  of  one 
man ;  and  reform  all  our  lives,  according  to  the 
holy  pattern  and  precepts  of  our  Lord,  that  thou 
mayest  cause  thy  anger  towards  us  to  cease  ;  and 
go  on  still  to  take  care  of  us,  and  never  leave  nor 
forsake  us. 

Bless  abundantly,  we  humbly  beseech  thee,  thy 
servant  the  President  of  the  United  States,  and  all 
others  in  authority  ;  and  so  replenish  them  with  the 
grace  of  thy  holy  spirit,  that  they  may  always  in- 
cline to  thy  will  and  walk  in  thy  way.  Endue  them 
plenteously  with  heavenly  gifts  ;  and  grant  them 
in  health  and  prosperity  long  to  live  :  and  grant 
unto  all  ministers  of  thy  gospel,  continual  supplies 
of  all  needful  gifts  and  graces  of  thy  holy  Spirit, 
for  the  faithful  and  comfortable  discharge  of  their 
several  duties.  O  bring  all  our  neighbours  near  to 
thyself;  and  be  thou  a  friend  to  all  our  friends,  a 
father  to  the  fatherless,  a  husband  to  the  widow,  a 
refuge  to  the  oppressed,  a  physician  to  the  sick, 
a  helper  to  the  friendless,  a  God  of  consolation  to 
to  the  distressed  and  sorrowful,  whatever  be  their 
trouble  and  affliction.  O  bless  to  us,  whatever  thou 
art  pleased  to  allot  us,  and  every  thing  that  befalls 
us.  Make  all  work  for  our  good  :  to  build  us  up 
in  thy  grace,  and  to  help  us  on  to  thy  glory. 

And  as  thou  hast  been  good  and  kind  to  us  the 
day  past,  and  throughout   our   whole   lives :  (for 


384 

which  we  desire,  O  Lord,  humbly  and  thankfully 
to  admire  thy  love,  and  to  bless  thy  name  :  so  we 
beg  that  we  may  experience  the  continuance  of 
thy  gracious  goodness,  to  us,  and  thy  fatherly  care 
over  us,  this  present  night.  O  preserve,  and  de- 
fend, and  bless,  and  keep  us,  that  no  evil  may  be- 
fall us,  nor  any  plague  come  nigh  our  dwelling. 
Give  us  sleep  and  rest  to  refresh  and  strengthen  us 
for  thy  service,  and  our  duty :  and  prepare  us,  O 
Lord,  for  our  last  sleep  in  death,  and  for  our  depar- 
ture out  of  this  mortal  life,  and  those  great  ac- 
counts that  we  must  make  before  the  judgment-seat 
of  Jesus  Christ.  0  instruct  us,  and  assist  us,  in 
that  great  work  of  preparation  for  our  cverhsting 
condition  :  that  we  may  (in  this  only  time  of  pre- 
paration) finish  the  great  work  which  thou  hast 
given  us  to  do,  before  the  night  of  death  overtake 
us,  wherein  we  cannot  work.  That,  whenever 
thou  shalt  be  pleased  to  give  us  the  summons  of 
death,  we  may  find  nothing  to  do  but  to  die,  and 
cheerfully  resign  our  spirits  into  thy  gracious  hands, 
who  gavest  them  to  us,  through  the  riches  of  thy 
grace,  and  the  worthiness  of  thy  son  ;  in  whose 
merits  alone  we  trust,  and  for  all  that  he  has  so 
wonderfully  effected,  to  recover  and  help  us,  and 
to  obtain  eternal  redem|)tion  for  us.  To  thy  name, 
O  blessed  God  of  our  salvation,  be  the  praise,  and 
honour,  and  glory,  given  by  us  and  all  thy  people, 
from  this  time  forth  for  evermore.     Amen. 


55 


383 


A  PRAYER  FOR  REPENTANCE* 

O  MOST  holy  Lord  God,  against  whom  I  have 
greatly  sinned,  and  who  for  my  sins  art  justly  dis- 
pleased :  thou  hast  revealed  thy  wrath  from  hea- 
ven against  all  ungodliness  and  unrighteousness  of 
men,  that  impenitently  go  on  in  their  trespasses  ; 
and  hast  let  us  know,  that  as  we  all  have  sinned,  so, 
except  we  repent,  we  shall  all  perish.  Even  the 
Saviour  of  sinners,  will  not  save  any  sinner  without 
repentance  ;  nor  dost  thou  remit  what  we  do  not 
repent ;  though,  upon  our  repentance,  thou  hast 
assured  us  of  thy  gracious  pardon  and  acceptance : 
and  when  we  return  unto  thee,  and  humble  our- 
selves before  thee,  thou  wilt  show  us  thy  compas- 
sion, and  grant  us  thy  salvation.  O  gracious  Lord! 
great  is  thy  mercy  to  vouchsafe  unto  us  this  reme- 
dy ;  and  to  deal  so  favourably  with  us  as  to  forgive 
and  receive  us,  when  we  are  but  sensible  of  our 
miscarriages  and  rebellions ;  and  humbly  submit 
ourselves,  and  leave  off  to  do  so  foolishly  and  wick- 
edly. Such  humiliation  and  reformation  is  the  best 
and  most  needful  thing  for  me  to  do ;  but  O  how 
averse  and  insufficient  am  I  to  do  it !  thou.  Search- 
er of  hearts,  knowest  my  heart  to  be  so  hardened, 
through  the  deceilfulness  of  sin,  that  as  soon  may  I 
fetch  water  out  of  the  flint,  as  godly  sorrow  out  of 
'this  obdurate  heart,  if  thou  the  great  God,  do  not 
soften  it  with  thy  holy  fear,  and  dissolve  and  over- 
come it  with  thy  powerful  love  :  and  that  I  can  no 
more  turn  with  all  my  heart  to  the  Lord,  than  I  can 
turn  the  course  of  a  river  to  run  back  to  the  foun- 
tain, unless  thou  draw  me  by  thy  grace,  and  giv« 


386 

me  power  from  on  high,  to  enable  me  for  the  bles- 
sed work. 

O  thou  that  didst  cause  water  to  gush  out  of  the 
stony  rock,  wilt  tbou  break  and  melt  my  rocky 
heart  into  such  contrition,  as  works  repentance  un- 
to salvation !  Yea,  thou  that  fashionest  all  the 
hearts  of  the  sons  of  men,  take  away  from  me  the 
heart  of  stone,  and  give  me  a  heart  of  flesh,  brok- 
en and  contrite,  such  as  thou  wilt  not  despise,  that 
1  may  look  upon  him  whom  my  sins  have  pierced, 
and  mourn  ;  and  be  in  bitterness  for  all  the  foul 
offences  that  I  have  committed  against  the  Lord  of 
love,  the  God  of  all  my  mercies.  O  give  me  such 
true  repentance  for  them,  that  thou  mayest  also 
give  me  full  pardon  of  them.  Give  me,  good 
Lord,  that  repentance  which  thy  holy  word  re- 
quires, and  such  as  thy  gracious  goodness  in  Christ 
Jesus  will  mercifully  accept :  even  the  repentance 
unto  life,  never  to  be  repented  of.  O  help  me  so 
to  repent,  and  to  be  converted,  that  my  sins  may 
be  blotted  out,  when  the  times  of  refreshing  shall 
come  from  the  presence  of  the  Lord.  Turn  thou 
me,  O  Lord  God  of  my  salvation,  and  so  shall  I 
be  turned,  and  change  my  mind,  and  amend  my 
life,  and  bring  forth  fruits  meet  for  repentance  :  not 
only  confessing  and  bewailing  sins  committed,  but 
also  hating  and  forsaking  sins  confessed  and  be- 
wailed :  loathing,  as  much,  as  ever  I  have  loved, 
the  things  that  displease  thy  holy  wili,  and  disho- 
nour thy  blessed  name. 

What  I  cannot  recall,  yet,  Lord,  give  me  grace 
to  repent.  And  where  I  am  (alas!)  so  far  from 
innocent,  Father  of  mercies,  make  me  penitent. 
And  touch  my  heart  with  such  a  powerful  sense  of 


387 

all  thy  loving  kindness,  as  may  work  upon  my  in- 
genuity :  to  break  my  heart  for  my  sins,  and  from 
them :  and  make  me  sorrowfully  concerned,  that 
ever  I  should  commit  offences  so  great  against  the 
God  so  infinitely  good :  yea,  make  me  so  circum- 
spect and  full  of  care,  to  keep  myself  henceforth  in 
thy  fear  and  love,  that  I  may  never  be  so  strange 
to  thee,  as  I  have  been ,  nor  fall  away  from  thee, 
and  trespass  upon  thee,  as  I  have  done.  O  my 
God  !  let  thy  goodness  lead  me  to  such  repentance. 
And  help  me  so  to  break  off  my  sins,  and  to  turn 
and  cleave  unto  thy  blessed  self,  that  thou  mayest 
have  mercy  upon  me,  and  abundantly  pardon  all 
my  abounding  sins,  through  the  infinite  riches  of 
ihy  grace  and  goodness,  in  the  Son  of  thy  lov§i 
my  onlj  Saviour,  Jesus  Christ,     Amen, 


WNW, 


•v-^v? 


Theological  Seminary-Speer  Library 


1    1012  01004  8736 


